The Arlington Library in Riverside, California, was the setting for an afternoon of powerful poetry, hosted by local poet Donato Martinez on Dec 7. Featuring guest poets Cecilia Sanchez, Jesenia Chavez, and Matt Sedillo, the event brought together a diverse audience to celebrate the spoken word. The afternoon also included an open mic segment, where community members were invited to share their own poetry.

Donato Martinez, a respected poet and educator with a talent for blending vivid imagery with themes of identity and culture, opened the event. He read several of his own poems, touching on personal and universal experiences, before introducing the guest poets. Follow Donato over on his Instagram.

Cecilia Sanchez, a poet whose work often focuses on resilience, family, and the nuances of daily life, followed Martinez. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing and cultural heritage, her poems reflect a deep connection to the human experience. Sanchez read "I ask myself" along with a few other poems. Follow Cecilia on her Instagram.

Jesenia Chavez, a proud Chicanita, public-school teacher, poet and storyteller, brought a fresh perspective with her work, exploring themes of identity, empowerment, and personal growth. A poet and advocate, Chavez’s writing often examines the complexities of finding your place while honoring your roots. Follow Jesenia on her Instagram.

The floor was opened up to the audience to come up and read some of their works as well, and several people did so, offering a look into the local Riverside writing community, as well as some of the work that Martinez does in the community, providing writing workshops through the library system, as some of the readers were recent participants in his workshops.

The evening’s final guest was Matt Sedillo, an internationally recognized poet often referred to as “the poet laureate of the struggle.” His work delves into themes of social justice, inequality, and cultural history, blending sharp critique with evocative storytelling. Sedillo’s poems have been featured in major literary journals, and two of his own books, 'City on the Second Floor' and 'Mowing Leaves of Grass', and his performances are known for their depth and intensity. Follow Matt on his Instagram.

He certainly brought that intensity to his reading as his voice echoed throughout the library as he poured his raw anger and pain into the words as they came out, sending chills down my skin. It was a moment I won't forget anytime soon.

The event highlights many of the ways that Riverside provides a thriving art and literary culture, and the Riverside Public Library system is at the forefront of that outreach. If you missed the event, keep an eye on the Riverside Library Instagram feed for events coming up at one of the branches closest to you.