Exploring Humanity Through Poetry with Kenton Hundley
In this episode of "To Be And Do," host Phil Amerson delve into the soul-stirring artistry of Kenton Hundley, the Executive Director of Dream School of the Arts, a renowned poet, and a deeply reflective voice on social issues. The conversation weaves through Kenton's evocative poetry, capturing his experiences, perceptions, and emotions on pressing societal themes, while drawing listeners into a rich tapestry of words and wisdom.
Kenton shares a poignant poem written for a memorial run commemorating the fifth anniversary of Ahmaud Arbery’s assassination. The poem, performed before an audience of runners, speaks to the intersection of race, justice, and resilience, culminating in a powerful call for solidarity and grace beyond divisive lines. His words resonate with a deep energy, reflecting the shared fears and hopes of communities often in the crosshairs of racial profiling and violence.
Another striking piece, “The Face of War,” paints a vivid portrait of the universal tragedy and impartiality of war. Through gripping imagery, Kenton explores the senselessness and enduring impact of conflict, capturing the haunting void left by both love and hate in its aftermath.
Further, Kenton’s poetry shines a light on the personal stories of immigrants, particularly focusing on day laborers and children separated from parents due to border issues. Poems illustrating the harsh realities faced by individuals seeking a better life underscore the human cost of migration. Yet, amidst these challenges, a medley of poems captures acts of love, connection, and hope that transcend hardship, showcasing how shared humanity can offer solace and joy, even in the face of adversity.
Here are five key takeaways from this emotional and enlightening episode:
- The Power of Words: Kenton Hundley’s poetry exemplifies how art can speak truth to power, capturing complex emotions and societal issues in a profound way.
- Resilience and Hope: Through his poetic narratives, Kenton highlights how individuals and communities find strength and hope amidst diverse challenges, from racial injustices to the plight of immigrants.
- Interconnected Struggles: The poems reveal a shared thread across different demographics and struggles, fostering a sense of interconnectedness in the fight for justice and equality.
- Reflection of Society: Art as a mirror to society is a recurring theme, illustrating the need for artists to hold a reflective lens to societal issues.
- Love in Action: Kenton’s closing thoughts focus on acts of love, underscoring the importance of empathy, unity, and support during times of division and isolation.
- This episode artfully reminds us of the transformative power of poetry and relationships, urging us to seek connection, understanding, and love in a world often fraught with division and isolation.
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KENTON REAVES HUNDLEY is an inspirational, creative, and passionate educator who’s worked with young people for years to empower them with the expectation of success, compassion, and the cultivation of faith. He has created deep and constantly evolving partnerships with a diverse array of community leaders including clergy, activists, athletes, artists, and educators throughout the San Diego region. For nearly 15 years he lent his expertise to curriculum design and supervision of the day-to-day instruction for unaccompanied minors from multiple educational and cultural backgrounds.
Kenton holds a strong belief that all children, adolescents, and young adults have the capacity to learn through collaboration, leadership development, and honest discussion and partnerships in safe spaces where all those present find themselves willing to learn, share, and grow.
As an artist, Kenton has won many awards for his socially conscious, hip hop and jazz-influenced poetry. He has been a guest lecturer/featured poet at San Diego State University, UCSD, USD, Miramar College, SD City College as well as at local schools. He’s a part of the Via International Global Education Team where he shares his Say It! Spray It! Speak Up. Be Heard. spoken word workshop for community activists.
Kenton Reaves Hundley
Executive Director
Dream School of the Arts
