Two prominent Michigan poets are advocating for greater cultural understanding through poetry.
On Thursday evening, Michigan Humanities hosted an event titled ‘Bridging Michigan: Building Understanding Through Poetry.’ The discussion featured U.P. Poet Laureate Dr. Beverly Matherne, a professor at Northern Michigan University (NMU), and Michigan Poet Laureate Nandi Comer. The event was moderated by Shawnrece Campbell, NMU’s Assistant Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion.
Both poet laureates emphasized the importance of expanding one’s perspective. Dr. Matherne and Comer urged attendees to explore poetry from diverse authors beyond their usual readings.
“There’s a poem for everyone,” Comer said. “If people don’t see themselves in poetry, it’s likely because they haven’t found the right poem yet. They may need to broaden their reading.”
Dr. Matherne added, “Sharing our unique messages is crucial.”