Last week, Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica, killing more than 65 people, leaving countless citizens without shelter and other basic needs, and causing tens of billions of dollars in damage. It’s going to take lots of time, effort, and money to get Jamaica back to something resembling normalcy. Here in Milwaukee, a group of accomplished poets are coming together in the wake of the historic hurricane to do what they can to ease the island’s unimaginable burden a little.
On Thursday, November 13, a group of local poets will gather at Red Maple (100 W. Maple St.) for a benefit. The event is organized my Milwaukee poet, author, and musician Bryon Cherry, who will serve as the host. He’s rounded up an impressive cast to join him in the fundraiser, including current Wisconsin Poet Laureate Brenda Cardenas, former Milwaukee Poet Laureate (2022-2024) Mario The Poet, author Brittainy Cherry, Jay Mollerskov, and Kathrine Yets.
“I believe words have the power to help, heal, and inspire,” Cherry says in a press release. “When the historic hurricane, Melissa, was barreling at a country that I have been to multiple times and love, the idea of a fundraiser came almost automatically.”
The event begins at 8:30 p.m. and there’s a suggested $10 cover. All proceeds from the event will be donated to Jam For Jamaica, an organization that builds and repairs homes in Jamaica.