Numbers vs. narratives
The onset of the pandemic and quarantine in 2020 inspired a deeper awareness of my relationship with my neighborhood, leading me to extensively research its history. On the land of the Anigiduwagi (Cherokee) is Asheville’s census tracts 2 and 3, … Continue reading Numbers vs. narratives
Mooseman’s Records
A few years ago, our friend Damion “DJ Supaman” Smith called to see if my sweetie Jason Krekel could take some boxes of records that were his father’s, Cleo “Mooseman” Shivers. He did not have room in his apartment, and … Continue reading Mooseman’s Records
my own oppression
Recently I was returned to a felt sense of my own oppression. Through intentional choices and good fortune, I’ve finally been able to shape my life so the majority of my interactions are with people I trust. Connecting with an … Continue reading my own oppression
Montford & Stumptown Stories
When I last wrote, it was wonderings on water. Today, I am examining earth; specifically the patch of soil upon which I live. The rooted love I feel here. My spirit holds so many stories of this place, stories I’ve … Continue reading Montford & Stumptown Stories
Sinkhole revelations
My mind keeps drifting to the big sinkhole on the corner of Montford Ave and E. Waneta. As I understand it, water has long flowed through that area. My heart throbs in a particular way as I picture the spot … Continue reading Sinkhole revelations
Grief and gratitude
This year I’ve spent a lot of time walking around my neighborhood crying. The more I research the history of the place where I live, the more pain and loss I uncover. Processing that pain has become a central part … Continue reading Grief and gratitude
Remembrance, remembrance, remembrance
Gratitude to those who are organizing these essential opportunities for remembrance. They are critical to creating a community where such violence and exploitation is impossible. Buncombe Community Remembrance Project Markers Installation “In order to move forward, we have to confront … Continue reading Remembrance, remembrance, remembrance
Onward in October
“Another turn of the wheel,” a friend recently noted as we discussed loss and love and the brilliance of a red fall leaf. Life presents reasons to feel grief and gratitude over and over. And so we keep taking care … Continue reading Onward in October
Anti-Blackness and Media Reparations
Anti-Blackness permeates the soul of our society. And while many are actively eradicating and healing from it, the fact remains that it continues to shape every area of our lives. As a writer, I am particularly aware of the ways … Continue reading Anti-Blackness and Media Reparations
Nourish Hope
Friends, as I’ve mentioned, I’ve been using my personal writing time for a long-term project, and have not had space to write for this site. In lieu of an essay, here are two recently released treasures to fortify your heart, … Continue reading Nourish Hope
Ami Worthen 