Voices E Pluribus Unum

FREEDOM OF SPEECH / FREEDOM OF ASSEMBLY

I love seeing the majesty of bald eagles soaring overhead. I took this photo in April, 2021 — it moves me to remember and to treasure what we once had in our country: freedom.

POETRY

So today’s poem is about that– about speaking up, together. It’s an “instruction poem,” as Ethical ELA describes and Yoko Ono writes. I hope it inspires you to speak up. It does not condone violence.

• Dedicated to non-violence
• A core principle is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.
• Do not associate with those who claim to act violently on our behalf.
• Committed to upholding democracy and the U.S. Constitution

INSPIRATION

“It is your right to speak. It is your responsibility to speak. And the cost of not speaking is a country none of us recognize…You are being asked to surrender your voice for the comfort of a man who will not extend you the same courtesy in return.” ADAM KINZINGER

Voices: E Pluribus Unum

Think of
opening the door,
walking any direction,
your choice is your freedom

Speak aloud
to the clouds
flowing with the wind,
set your words free

See them
as eagles
soaring strong,
sentinal for liberty

Step forward
follow your words
truth in the world,
a beat from your heart

Feel the beat
the harmony with others
the songs of freedom,
out of many, one

Walk the songs
sing fully together
so no tyrant may put asunder,
let freedom sing

Sheri Edwards
National Poetry Month
Instruction Poem
4/28/26

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Reflect curiosity and wonder --Go boldly and scatter seeds of kindness...