Poetry in Motion: An Indigo Blue Celebration of Black Culture and Beyond

In the historic Columbia City District of Seattle, an intentional gathering rooted in Black culture, history, and the spirit of solidarity is happening this weekend. Last week, artist and educator Logic Amen joined Almost The Weekend with host Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy, to talk about his concept behind The Poetry in Motion Ball, hosted at the Royal Esquire Club on Saturday, October 25th. This monumental event aims to bring an elevated and culturally resonant experience to the city, drawing inspiration from the history of New Orleans' Mardi Gras festivities.

Amen explained that the Poetry In Motion Ball is designed to be a unique experience for Black people, marginalized communities, and their allies. 

"People don't understand how much those festivities [in New Orleans] are rooted in indigenous spiritual systems, Christianity, but also Black culture," he said, highlighting that much of the culture, from music and speech to dress and value systems, originates in the South, specifically referencing the history of figures like Marie Laveau and the role of Voodoo in inspiring the Haitian Revolution.

The Ball's theme and dress code center around the color indigo blue, a choice steeped in history and spiritual significance. Amen explained the intentionality behind the color, tracing it back to the enslaved experience in the South. Indigo was a crop, like tobacco and cotton, picked by enslaved people and later used to dye fabric blue, a color that would eventually be used for the Union uniforms. In essence, the color represents freedom, Amen said. 

Beyond its historical ties to liberation, indigo blue holds significance in spiritual systems like Voodoo, indigenous to both West Africa and America. In these traditions, the color represents higher consciousness and protection. 

Amen noted that historically, especially in the Gullah Geechee community, people would paint their window shades blue to ward off "hate spirits." He also suggested a connection to the origins of blues music, played to "drive away the evil spirits." 

The upscale nature of the event, which Amen described as a classic ball gala experience, is intended to give attendees a rare opportunity to dress up and celebrate outside of typical settings like court or church.

The community can expect a variety of entertainment, carefully curated to encourage dancing, networking, and fun, centered around poetry and spoken word as the central theme of the night. DJ S. Malik will provide the music, alongside live musicians, and a catered meal is included with tickets. 

Ultimately, the overarching message of the Poetry in Motion Ball is one of unity. Amen stressed the importance of community in the face of cultural and political challenges. 

"Instead of fighting, we need to start uniting... Sometimes the best form of self-defense is just to unite," he said.
The Poetry in Motion Ball will take place on October 25th at the Royal Esquire Club in the Columbia City District. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Get your tickets on Eventbrite.

Tune in to Almost The Weekend Thursdays at 9 p.m. on all Converge streaming platforms.

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