Depression Made
Me Write This
Poems By
C. Alexandria-Bernard Thomas
From Black Minds Publishing
Forthcoming Fall 2024
“Depression Made Me Write This,” Based on the title, one could be led to believe Mx. Thomas is following the growing trend of glorifying their struggle. This work is quite the opposite. In their writing, C. suggests that we are a collection of our experiences. We will always face opposition and need to navigate traumatic experiences. Why not learn the lessons and till our soil? Why not hold our joy and change the climate in our lives?
This work is a bound text example of alchemy –transforming a life riddled with craters into a cultivated snow shower – a place for growth. Mx. Thomas is a living example of tussling with depression and working towards being a habitat for joy. I am better for their life and their work. You will be too.-Dwayne Lawson-Brown
Co-Author of From Gumbo to Mumbo; Breaking the Blank; and Crochet Kingpin
Cover Designed By: Rich Rocket
WHO IS C. ALEXANDRIA-BERNARD THOMAS?
A dynamic force of creativity, activism, and inspiration! As a Queer Black Non-Binary individual, they have harnessed the power of words and art to champion important causes such as Child Abuse Prevention, LGBTQIA rights, and Mental Health Awareness. Their journey has led them to become an award-winning poet, a dedicated teaching artist, and a prominent advocate for positive change.
Recognized as a pioneer of poetry by the National Underground Spoken Word Poetry Award (NUSPA) in 2015, C. possesses the remarkable ability to both captivate audiences as a performer and as a host. Their magnetic presence has left an indelible mark on diverse platforms, from esteemed institutions like Angelina College, Georgetown University, and Howard University to spaces like Studio 2001 Art Gallery, The Athenaeum, and Torpedo Factory.
Partnering with the Northern Virginia Association of Fine Arts (NVAFA) and Carlyle House Historic Park, C. has curated annual events celebrating African American excellence. They also lead their acclaimed discussion-based writer’s workshop, Writing to Wellness™, which empowers individuals to utilize poetry as a tool for healing while navigating trauma. Collaborations with organizations such as Creative Suitland Arts Center and Heard underscore their commitment to fostering growth through artistic expression.
C’s. impact extends beyond artistry into community organizing. Their advocacy work involves educating adults on how to respond to Child Sexual Abuse through programs like Darkness to Light's Stewards of Children®, receiving honorable mentions from Her Majesty, Queen Silvia and Her Royal Highness Princess Madeleine of Sweden through their global non-profit World Childhood Foundation USA, Buddy Speaks, and End the Harvest Ministries. The pages ofpublications like The Zebra and the historic distinction of being the first poet featured in Swerv Magazine attest to the breadth of their influence.
With every performance, classroom engagement,or speech, C. embodies love in action. Their presence is a beacon of hope and empowerment, a necessary voice amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. Through poetry, advocacy, and a commitment to positive change, theycontinue to shape a more inclusive, compassionate world.
Behold the visionary: Mx. C. Alexandria-Bernard Thomas.
Reclamation.
C. Alexandria-Bernard Thomas's book Reclamation. is a poetry exposéinto the inner workings of "doing the work." This book is unique in the fact that it causes the reader to pause and look at the messy thing that is existing and see the divine; not only in ourselves, but in all the people andthings around us. Reclamation. takesus on a journey of growth and release through poetry in the most literal, spiritual, and redemptive way possible. I am glad to have shared in their catharsis.
-Micah the Poet, Author of Things No One Else Wants to Say
C. Alexandria-Bernard Thomas has words dripping off a powerfulpen. I think C. must have added elasticity to the paper used to write this book. Ink this heavy would disintegrate regular paper. This poetry immerses you. Truth and real life are served abundantly. There is no pretense, only raw emotions served with a poetic machete. This is lyrical justice. Words dance with imagery, and occasionally pain cuts in to take the lead then love has the last word.
- Kim B. Miller, First Black Poet Laureateof Prince William County
WORKSHOPS
Writing to Wellness™
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬™ is designed to guide trauma survivors in using poetry as a means of healing and growth. Through thoughtful discussions, interactive exercises, and writing activities, participants gain insights into harnessing creative writing for navigating and processing their traumatic experiences.
The workshop equips attendees not only with tools for self-care and personal empowerment but also with the skills to advocate for others who have gone through similar experiences.
Stewards of Children®
Darkness to Light's Stewards of Children® is an adult-focused prevention training program that centers on improving the awareness of the prevalence, consequences, and circumstances of child sexual abuse (CSA).
The training aims to educate adults (primarily childcare professionals) to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to (CSA).
GALLERY
