Poetry Under the Oaks

The Twelfth Annual New York City Poetry Festival was held on Governors Island from Saturday July 29th through Sunday, July 30th.
Hosted by The Poetry Society of New York, Governors Island was home of the Indigenous Lenape people. Picturesque gardens, art showcases, themed dance events, workshops, and crafts venues are open at minimal costs (some free) on this beautiful site most of the year. If your interest is piqued, check the American Indian Community House (AICH) which offers educational resources. Both The Trust for Governors Island, and the Governors Island National Monument websites offer additional information.
I have been fortunate to perform my poetic/prose works under the limbs of these wonderful oaks! The supportive community is always overwhelmingly positive which is particularly poignant after post/prolonged COVID. One positive element produced directly from COVID in my opinion has been my ability to perform and engage with global poets. It was wonderful to meet some folks I only know from zoom squares! Poets from Washington State, California, Florida, several other locations across the US and other countries attended this year as they have every year of this festival.
The atmosphere was exciting and anticipatory. Yes, NYC poet friends were there as well allowing us to support each other in-person under balmy skies. It’s a wonderful way to network as well, meet new poets, swap books, and provide alerts on upcoming publications.
My thanks to Betty Pierre, who has impressive writing credits and wonderful Festival snacks (Yes, I recall last year’s munchie heaven.) As a member of The Rebel Poets and NWU your presence on Sunday was invaluable.
Betty Pierre addressed approximately thirty festival participants, while I spoke on Saturday to maybe a dozen participants face to face. Since I had two venues to read from, having access to a stage, captive/willing friends and microphones, I was able to broadcast the NWU’s accomplishments.
We are particularly proud of our work obtaining freelancers payments from unscrupulous businesses reneging on their contracted agreements. Volunteers will be needed every year for this event which allows us to highlight many talented writers and premier neophytes. This setting annually offers us an opportunity to boost NWU membership and awareness of issues important to our writing community
I am especially thankful for seeing a fellow writer, Ms. Bray on Saturday and thankful for her unexpected and welcomed assist. Peace, Diane Murray Ward