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The Power of Poetry

Provided by The National Museum of Language

For Welcoming Week Laura Murray and Emily Murray from the National Museum of Language bring you; "The Power of Poetry ". A multi-media presentation with examples of poetry from around the world, from ancient times to the present day, on themes relating to social justice.

About the Language Museum

The National Museum of Language honors and supports language acquisition, utilization and preservation, along with linguistic and cultural diversity. Through outreach activities and online resources, they celebrate the magic and beauty of human communication.

About Laura Murray

Dr. Murray is the current President of the NML. She earned a BA in Anthropology from Rice University, Houston, TX, and a Ph.D. in Oriental Studies, specializing in Modern Chinese History, from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. Her career (National Security Agency) spanned language-focused assignments in the U.S. and overseas.

The Power of Poetry Exhibit Sneak Peak

Demos Is Done – The National Museum of Language

Demos is done, the brute that ruled too long, Spewed tyrants, tended them and made them strong... - Samuel Hoffenstein
Samuel Hoffenstein (Oct. 8, 1890 – Oct. 6, 1947) was born in Lithuania; his family emigrated to the US in 1894. From 1941-1947 he was employed as a scriptwriter for over 30 movies. He was twice a co-nominee for an Oscar: for “Best Adaptation” for the 1931 film Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and for “Best Screenplay” for the 1944 film Laura. 

​Privilege Is – The National Museum of Language

Ladies and gentlemen, privilege is getting to take everything I just said and forget it in a matter of minutes...-Aneesah Lawrence
Aneesah Lawrence is a freshman honors student at Howard University. She is a double major in Psychology and Criminology, a passionate activist, and a spoken word artist. Her poetry is an amalgamation of the Black experience, Islam, and personal narratives. 

Pais Sajado – The National Museum of Language

Born in Mexico City in February 1985, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Universidad Iberoamericana, and completed a double degree program in which he earned a Master of Arts in Publishing and Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Rosemont College, in Rosemont, Pennsylvania. His work (fiction, poetry and memoir) has been featured in diverse publications around the globe. 

About Welcoming Week

Welcoming Week is a national effort which connects neighbors of all backgrounds through fun and engaging activities. This year's theme is Stories We Share aims to foster a sense of belonging and community-wide connection. View our past Welcoming Week library events here (ranging from storytime, teen, button making programs as well as library displays and more).