Open Mic Recap - “Home Bound”
Photos by Violette Media
Thank you to everyone who came out for “Home Bound,” the Lewiston Community Open Mic held last week at the First Universalist Church of Auburn. The event was presented by Maine Inside Out in collaboration with the Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial, Indigenous, and Tribal Populations as part of the Haven storytelling project.
Artists shared original writing about experiences of eviction, working multiple jobs and still struggling to stay afloat, experiencing homelessness, gentrification, parents sacrificing their own health to provide for their children, having to accept whatever housing is available regardless of whether it’s safe. Shoutout to our featured artist Donkell Bolton, beloved MIO poet and performer, who shared poetry about fatherhood, family, loss, and love.
The art resonated deeply with audience members, who shared reflections in a closing dialogue. Here are excerpts from a few pieces:
“Home bound. Warm and bittersweet memories of a younger me, when I was still hungry for the streets.
The backpack on my back held everything I’d ever need. I’d survive and I’d enjoy the trip I told myself, believe.
It used to hurt too much to say I was homeless.
I was young and eager to explore the country my family never got to see.
I pushed myself, sometimes for days, with a home bound heartbeat.”
“Application denied.
Money tight. Living paycheck to paycheck. No way not to accumulate debt.”
“Worked multiple jobs, days and nights, only to find out I’m still behind.
A year ago I found myself outside in my car in negative degree weather, going to sleep to the sound of my teeth, as I lay in utter defeat.
The barrier that keeps you from being on a bench in the middle of a sidewalk is ruthless.
Every day I look back at how far I’ve come.
To those who are currently struggling, don’t give up.”
“I feel evicted from a place, not a home.
I’m free, why do I feel just as caged?
How can you have a house and not be home bound?”
“Get out, Gen(trification)’s movin’ in.
She comes in with blueprints, brunch menus, and a smile that smells like profit.
We’re all getting priced out of our own stories.”
Video reel recap of the October Open Mic by Violette Media
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