The Diatribe has three programs that will take place this summer in Grand Rapids and Muskegon. It’s been facilitating poetry programs in Grand Rapids schools since 2013 and now, completes programs in at least 20-30 classrooms a year in Grand Rapids Public, Kentwood and Muskegon Public schools among others.
The Diatribe provides arts related programs for mental health and wellness, social justice and unity in partnership with local charities and organizations in West Michigan. Here’s program director of education, J-Lin Tamminga.
“We use spoken word poetry. So it really gives students a space and opportunity and means to learn more about themselves and it does have a focus on mental health. We always say the spoken word is not therapy, but it is therapeutic.”
Tamminga says two programs will take place July 29th through August first at Baxter Community Center in Grand Rapids. One entitled, “Pain, Peace and Poetry” is for 9th through 12 graders, helping students learn how to process complex emotions. The other is Lifted Voices… for students in grades 5 through 8.
“And that will allow students to see the power in their words and hone in on their writing and speaking skills.”
There will also be a program held in Muskegon mid-July. At the conclusion of the programs the community is invited to attend “Diatribe’s Poetry Pop Up in the Park on August 2nd at Garfield Park.
Tamminga says anyone interested can reach out to her or just visit their website, at https://thediatribe.org/
