On Tuesday, October 17th, the Writers Lives and Works class hosted a community poetry night. Appropriately named “Moving People Through Poetry”, it offered individuals the opportunity to share their favorite poems with others in the Bennington Community. Without the help of sponsors such as the Bennington Public Library, the Vermont Reads Program, and the College Steps Program, the event would not be as much of a success as it was!

A popular poet for the evening was Jacqueline Woodson, which did not come as a surprise due to her incredible pieces. One of her books, “Brown Girl Dreaming”, was the pick for the Vermont Reads Program this year. Some other poets read where Rupi Kaur, Langston Hughes, and SVC’s own James Crews. A few poets brought their own works to share, eliciting laughs, ‘aww’s and cheers from the audience.

After all those who signed up to read, the offer was extended for anyone else who wanted to share a piece but had yet to sign in. A few members of the audience came forward to share pieces with a very supporting crowd.

After the evening of readings ended, everyone gathered in the gallery for snacks and drinks provided graciously by the College Steps Program.