Poems, Lessons, and Melodies from Blight Chronicles the Opera, P2 - Grassroots and Subterranean Orgs

"Poems, Lessons, and Melodies from Blight Chronicles the Opera" is a journey into the unseen stories of blight. This video series uses poetry, song, and storytelling to reveal what abandoned buildings and overgrown lots often hide: the resilience, hardship, and hope of communities left behind. Blight isn’t just physical decay; it’s a reminder of forgotten neighborhoods and overlooked lives.

In each episode, I share personal reflections shaped by my work in Flint, Michigan, and beyond—stories of survival in spaces that others have written off. Through original spoken word and operatic melodies, we explore the real impact of blight and what it takes to rebuild from within. This series is for those who care about our shared environment, who value the power of community, and who believe in the strength found in reclaiming what’s been neglected.

Thank you for joining me as we give voice to these stories. I invite you to watch, listen, and share in the journey.


Watch to experience:

Poetic reflections on blight’s effects on people and places
Personal stories of resilience from within the blight
Original operatic performances inspired by real-life experiences
Lessons on community power and transformation

Whether you're an advocate, an artist, or simply curious, "Blight Chronicles the Opera" offers an unforgettable, artful look at the struggle and hope found in blighted communities.

Subscribe to stay connected as we bring voice to the unseen and unheard. Share this journey and let’s spread awareness on the path to meaningful change.

*Suggested Tags:*
#BlightChronicles, #PoemsFromBlight, #UrbanDecay, #CommunityResilience, #EnvironmentalJustice, #DarnellIshmel, #OperaForChange, #BlightAwareness, #StoriesOfResilience, #UrbanRevitalization, #FlintMichigan

P1 - Vacant and Quiet: Blight

P2 - Grassroots and Subterranean Organizations

P3 - The Lots Were Telling

P4 - Recalibrating Justice Globally

Series Goal: Shed light on the human impact of blight, connect communities through storytelling, and inspire change through art.
Audience: Community advocates, artists, urban studies enthusiasts, social justice supporters, and those interested in poetry, music, and social impact.