1st Shitshow
Last Tuesday, for the first time in my life, I felt afraid to go to America. In all my years, I had never experienced such fear, but after Trump pardoned 1,500 people who attacked the Capitol, something changed. My heart broke for all those who work day and night to ensure everyone receives a fair trial.
The 1,500 individuals pardoned were likely among the most extreme participants in the insurrection. While some received penalties ranging from one week to 50 years, many were already free. This decision felt meaningless—except for one thing: it sent a chilling message that Trump sees himself above justice. And that made me sick to my core.
2nd Shitshow
And then, yesterday, I received an email from Ana Ruiz at Drive Music Publishing. They have explicitly forbidden me from celebrating ‘Warrior Poet’s’ life and work at our 5th Poetry Downtown Festival.
I am heartbroken and frustrated. It pains me deeply to cancel the festival and to disappoint all the poets, artists, and attendees who were eagerly preparing to explore ‘Warrior Poet’s’ work and the broader contributions of American Indian poetry and poets in today’s America. This decision weighs heavily on me, and I am at a loss for words.
For now, all I can say is: it’s time to get drunk.
For more details, please see my latest blog post and press release:
– https://poetrydowntown.com/10-years-warrior-poet-celebration-denied/
– https://poetrydowntown.com/press-releases/
Cheers,
Erik