Perfect For
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- Schools
- Libraries
- Community Programs
- Festivals
Recommended Ages
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- Middle and High School Only
Program Length
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- 45–60 Minutes
Learning Themes
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- Social Change
- Cultural Awareness
- Character Development
- Civic Engagement
- Poetry & Literature

We Own the Night: Storytelling & Poetry Program for Teens
From the voices of the past to the leaders of tomorrow—claim your place, your voice, and your vision.
Using the words from LeRoi Jones’ poem, “We Own the Night”, as a starting point, teens will take a walk through the world of poetry, song and short story of the 1960’s, and other times where people stood for their rights. They will hear stories of empowerment both fictional – folktale and original – and true. In the end, teens will be encouraged to take their turn “to own the night” through justice, unity and peace.
Sample Activities
- Audience discussion of themes of justice, unity, and peace
- Exploring connections between poetry, song, and storytelling
- Reflecting on personal responsibility and the power of individual voices
