The Baker Heritage Museum and Baker Branch Public Library Showcase Local Poets & Spoken Word Artists

Left to Right: Ashley Broussard (EBRP Branch Manager), Cynthia Grimes (Director of the Baker Heritage Museum), Cathy L. Gabel (featured reader), Sarah Evans (featured reader), Ginna Paredes (featured reader), Angela Lockett (Teen librarian staff) Photo Credit: Cynthia Grimes

Written by: Johnay Hall

On October 8, 2022, the Baker Heritage Museum, with the help of the Baker Branch Public Library, hosted a spoken word event titled "Speak Up, Be Heard, Everyone Has Something to Say".

Left to Right: Sarah Evans (featured reader), Cathy L. Gabel (featured reader), and Ginna Paredes (featured reader) Photo Credit: Cynthia Grimes

This event allowed participants to read their original poetry selections to the citizens of Baker. Hearing participants share aspects of themselves through spoken word was a wholesome and enriching experience.

Cynthia Grimes, Director of the Baker Heritage Museum, opened the event by stating, "Everyone needs to be heard and seen especially considering the state of the world."

Sarah Evans, Cathy L. Gabel, and Ginna Paredes read from their personal collections to give us heartfelt readings about family, self, nature, inspiration, and growth.

Left to Right: Ashley Broussard (EBRP Branch Manager), Cynthia Grimes (Director of the Baker Heritage Museum), Cathy L. Gabel (featured reader), Sarah Evans (featured reader), Ginna Paredes (featured reader), Angela Lockett (Teen librarian staff) Photo Credit: Cynthia Grimes

Ashley Broussard, the East Baton Rouge Parish Branch Manager, said, "We want to make sure to utilize all the resources available in our community, so please make sure you visit the Baker Library and the Baker Heritage Museum."

Each reader was given a tote bag full of goodies and prizes as an appreciation gift, courtesy of the Baker Branch Library.