Open Mic Night

Students from all over the Hart School District came together on April 18 for the second Open Mic Night of the 2024-25 school year. Andrea Manzala, one of the main coordinators, described Open Mic Night as a free community event for people all across the district, specifically students, to speak out on issues. The topic for this Open Mic Night is based on “Can You Feel the Light” by Tyler the Creator, focusing on hope during the current U.S. political state. 

This event was initially founded by the club called ALLY, which is the Asian-American and Pacific Islander Club, started at VHS. Over time, this collaboration grew with clubs such as the Origami Club, Feminist Club, and others selling food and trinkets to help support the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights. Students also participated in performances, such as singing, poem reading, or simply speaking out their opinions to start discussions. There were small workshops open to visitors, such as writing letters of hope to yourself, family, friends, or your community. Songs ranged from jazz, such as Laufey, and musical theatre from The Greatest Showman, and speeches were told to encourage students during this unprecedented time, all of which were to spread hope, love, community, and continue growing. 

With many coordinators graduating, the Open Mic Night Events are open for

anyone to host, so if you have the passion, reach out to clubs and organizations to build a foundation and platform for students to be their authentic selves in the face of adversity!