My work is included in the new pocket anthology from Washington Writers’ Publishing House, CAPITAL LOVE, published May 5th, 2026. I have one poem, “The Strength of Softness” included, which is thrilling on its own. But I’m even more excited about the inclusion of my flash fiction piece, “What Lady Liberty Asks Us to Hold.”
Why am I so excited about the flash piece? First of all, I’ve never really written flash fiction, so it’s a new genre for me. Secondly, I started writing the piece at one of the Pride Poetry workshops at the Arts Club of Washington, DC. I love attending these workshops, led by queer poets who are selected for an associated residency. Every workshop brings something new to learn, and sometimes the topic really clicks with me and I can run with it – like in this instance.
This particular workshop was led by poet Angelique Palmer and was focused on poetry as protest. During the workshop, we looked at a variety of protest posters and images to find inspiration for our writing. The poster/image that inspired my piece was “Girl, Hold My Earrings,” which depicts Lady Liberty (aka the Statue of Liberty) taking off her earrings and looking ready for a fight. During the workshop I produced a few strong lines, then during the more complete writing and editing process, I leaned heavily on the CAPITAL LOVE submission prompt, which referenced bell hooks.
I knew after I finished writing and editing that it was a powerful piece. I did a test run read during a virtual Hyattsville Open Mic series, and received positive feedback as well. My face succumbed to a big smile when I received word that it was accepted for the anthology.
You can purchase the collection today! Also, there is a Summer of Love reading and workshop series accompanying the publication. Join me on Sunday, June 28th at the Capital Love Lit Fest at the Writer’s Center in Bethesda, MD. I’ll be speaking on one of the panels and look forward to a day full of literary love and appreciation. It’s a pay-as-you-can event (and that starts at free). Seats are limited (and going fast) – sign up here.
marks in the sand 