During these times of whistles, protests, and raising our voices, we think of the poet’s role as witness, as well as the way poets write to document what is happening, adding their words to the maelstrom that is the world. With this in mind, we’ve asked our featured poets: What do you want to say?

 We hope you enjoy the answers—that they call you to the world, remind you of the ways carefully chosen language can capture a moment, call you to action. Poetry can also carve out a space for reflection, make connection, create a tiny time capsule of the now for us to hold on to. 

 —C. Kubasta, Poetry Editor