Hashim Garrett grew up in Brooklyn, New York. As a young boy, he changed schools and was picked on and bullied. He realized that he could avoid the torment if he befriended his tormentors, and he eventually joined a gang. There was something powerful about having others fear him for a change. He said that when he was good, nobody noticed him, but when he … Continue reading Hashim Garrett
It is a simple but powerful statement. It acknowledges somebody’s existence…their worth. I see you. How much conflict, social strife, or personal dysfunction is a result of people feeling like they are not seen…not heard? Last week I worked with 5th graders. We started the day with a general assembly to introduce A Peace of My Mind. The exhibit was installed and as the day … Continue reading I see you
Laura Patey has been with her partner, Leigh, for 30 years. They have been married since 2004. Together, they adopted two adolescent boys out of the foster care system who are now in their 20s. She has always been interested in advocating for the marginalized in society. She recalls her own struggles of not quite fitting in as she was growing up, and she believes … Continue reading Laura Patey
Tuesday night was a great celebration of a long effort to produce our new book, A Peace of My Mind: American Stories. Thanks to everyone who came out to Squirrel Haus Arts for the release party. There were people who’ve been in my books, people who helped support and fund the books, friends, family, and more. If I could judge it right from up front, … Continue reading We did it!
