lekeja dawson
Lekeja Dawson is a mother, spoken word poet, singer, make up, graphic, and tattoo artist from Chicago, Illinois. She was a team member of the Chicago Illstars and participated in Brave new voices. Currently she runs her own tattoo business Soul&Ink and continues to do freelance artwork.
The impact of poetry and the spoken word club
Spoken word has saved my life countless times. The ability to speak freely in an open space without judgment is something i needed to survive. Joining the spoken word club at OPRFHS taught me how to harness the power in my words while also being able to reach someone similar to me who didn't necessarily have that voice. Mr. Kahn gave my wild and large personality structure. I've always been loud and untamed. To have a place where i could take the chaos of me and turn it into poems, a place where i was able to be as loud as possible, it healed me. I carry so much \of what i learned from that club in life. I've yet to come across anywhere or anything like spoken word club. I built a family of the friends i gained there. My only hope is my children have something nearly as beautiful when they find whatever creative outlet they get into. Every kid needs a PK and a spoken word club.
Writing Prompts
Write about something you want, but should be afraid of
Write about a lesson you’ve learned “backwards”
Write about something you’re “practicing patience” for
Top favorite poets or lyricists
My favorite poets: Avery R Youngand Deja Taylor
Since I was introduced to spoken word and the art of performing Deja and Avery have always been 2 of my favorites. The power in their voices and their words are still unmatched. They taught me how to command a room with grace and sincerity.
Favorite Emcee: Ms. Lauryn Hill
She is the perfect balance of soul and hiphop to me. She was able to be a woman in a man dominated field and stood out without using sex to appeal to her audience. She is honest and true to herself and her beliefs and is the reason why i even began write.