Photo of Dr. Cornel West and Christine Passarella

A note from one of my students…a brilliant young poet. “Thank you Husna for your kind and generous statement.” Husna recited her poetry during the Art of Protest and Celebration of Peace event at Adelphi University. She was part of the special presentation on September 4th with me and Dr. Cornel West in Garden City, New York. Special thank you goes out to Professor Devin Thornburg for inviting us to speak.

“I began writing poetry and songs about two years ago, along with performing arts such as sketching, painting, sculpting and what not. But at one point my fire had nothing else to feed on, so it slowly burnt out into society’s darkness. All that was left of my work remained in the ashes. But then she walked into my life Christine Passarella, a beautiful, inspiring, and absolutely stunning woman who earned my respect with an hour’s worth of teaching. She collected the ashes, the burnt memories, the unfinished work and she ignited the newly split fuel. She is one of the inspirations behind my work, my actions, and my words. Ms. Passarella was the one who introduced me to the past heroes who live in today’s future. Because of this respected woman, I was able to meet a genius who later stood as another inspiration, Dr. Cornel West. Because of this wonderful woman, I am indeed A KID FOR COLTRANE. And because of this beloved woman, I am where I stand today with fire in my eyes.”
Husna Mirza (Middle School Student)

Congratulations to Husna for recently being elected Student Body President at PS/IS 178 🙂

Take a look at our photo page…Oh The Places You’ll Go