“A Poem for Aunt Ophelia” is an ode to my Aunt Ophelia who passed away on Dec. 21, 2023. I was not able to attend the funeral. This poem was inspired by the slide show on the funeral home’s website.
Author Archives: Synnika Chizoba Lofton
Father’s Day in the Cemetery
Father’s Day in the Cemetery appears in in the poetry collection “8 Days in Rhode Island.”
Mr. Bullard Says Pollution is Segregated
“Mr. Bullard Says Pollution is Segregated” addresses the climate crisis and was debuted at the Gold Lion Community Cafe, Richmond VA., February 22, 2024
Inner City Energy
I wrote Inner City Energy, while I was parked on a busy street in downtown Norfolk VA. Brake lights, Laughter. Sunset. The vibe told a unique story that day.
A LIMP TO FEAR
“A Limp to Fear” is featured in the poetry collection, Kufis and Cornrows.”
American Outlaw (Video)
American Outlaw is featured on the Ep Countdown to Revolution and was written during the Black Lives Matter movement. The song features singer/songwriter Sam Barrett.
Brother Martin’s Words
“Brother Martin’s Words” was written to honor Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the impact he left on a country still trying to find a firm sense of equality.
FLASH BACK EPISODE: “USING BLACK HISTORY TO TROLL AMERICA”
Dr. Synnika’s Topical Poem of the Week explores American issues that affect the African-American community, such as racism, oppression, gender inequality, and poverty. Synnika Lofton offers a unique blend of social commentary and poetry in each episode. In this episode of Dr. Synnika’s Topical Poem of the Week, Synnika Lofton examines the power of Black History Month to troll America. Lofton believes millions of Americans are uncomfortable with Black History Month because it represents the beauty, resilience, and struggle of the African-American experience.
To Honor Her Bold Walk w/ Video
To Honor Her Bold Walk is a poem that was written for beloved art teacher Melinda Vooss. She transitioned on October 23, 2022. This video is a tribute to her love, passion, and dedication to arts education. A special thanks goes out to everybody who was involved with the creation of this video, including film maker, Alexander Jay, percussionist, Greg Lee, educator, Julieta S. Grey, engineer, Drew Norvella, the brilliant dancers, Marilyn Pablo, Leah Hilliard, Anusa Pernic, and artist/ business owner, Ukwensi Chappell for allowing us to use Gallery Ukwensi to film this video.
On a Black High School Senior Who Cannot Walk…
This poem was inspired by the countless Black boys and girls who have had to defend their natural Black hairstyles from school administrators. In some cases, they have been prevented from walking at their own high school graduations.