The upper school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club recently hosted a talk with famous poet Yosimar Reyes. Reyes came to the school to read some of his poetry and speak about his experiences as a Latino immigrant and gay man.

Reyes is an immigrant from the Mountains of Guerrero, Mexico who currently resides in San Jose. His newest book of poetry is entitled “For Colored Boys Who Speak Softly” and focuses on the experiences of gay minorities in their home countries as well as in the United States. He is a spoken word poet and as such his poetry is very rhythmic and is meant to be read aloud.

Reyes’ visit to campus gave students a chance to learn about something that the majority of them will never experience. He spoke to an appreciative audience of about eight students and staff and his charm, intelligence and honesty kept the listeners smiling with empathy. The struggles with oppression that homosexuals go through in many countries around the world are reminiscent of the struggles of countless minorities throughout history.