On September 6th, Justice Indu Malhhotra declared that “history owes an apology to members of the LGBT community for the delay in ensuring their rights” in regards to her role in helping decriminalize gay sex. In celebration of India’s landmark ruling, the editors highlight our five queer figures from history. Nuns, sexologists, and everything in between.
On September 6th, Justice Indu Malhhotra declared that “history owes an apology to members of the LGBT community for the delay in ensuring their rights” in regards to her role in helping decriminalize gay sex. In celebration of India’s landmark ruling, the editors highlight our five queer figures from history. Nuns, sexologists, and everything in between.
This poem is part of our new series, Poem Of The Week. Stay tuned each Wednesday for a new piece, and don't forget to submit your own work to info@teeneyemagazine.com!
that is my name
Warda S
War-da
That is my name.
You can find me in the flower fields of the Netherlands, or just out in your backyard.
I inhabit a scent so vibrant not even the pollinating bees can grasp.
Warda is my label and it shall be said with respect and appreciation.
A name so delicate, strong, and free is often confused with such a vulgar word. “TERRORIST”.
Now every time I hear that word I get a rush in my body that only occurs when I hear that word. When I hear “TERRORIST” I feel as though I have lost a piece of me. That bitter word is toxic to my roots, each time it is said one of my petals decay. Thou shall never be mistaken that after I lose a soft petal I am left with a bud that replenishes itself much stronger than the previous.
Ter·ror·ist- A word you use to describe someone who uses unlawful violence. A word I use to describe Steven Paddock, some may use “lone wolf” but wolves travel in packs and have morals. Steven was traveling with rifles and nothing but his sick mindset.
Terrorists are people who participated in the act of terror in Manchester, and London. Don’t you dare get that mixed up with my fellow Muslims.
A few hear the word Muslim and their faces flush with fear.
Though it should be, when the word is said your mind is infused with Culture, Acceptance, Love, Equality, Struggle, and strength.
To all my fellow buds of joy;
Carry on with your beauty because what you have to offer shouldn’t be diminished by the chaos in the media.
Beauty is your authentic name; Asiya, Ayesha, Zeynab-
It is the way you wear that hijab so modestly.
War-da,
That is my name.
Warda Sheikh, is a 16 year old Somali girl born and raised in Toronto. Growing up, she has always had passion for writing. Short stories, rants, and poetry are her favourite way to releasing all her emotions and thoughts. Warda formulates pieces because of the way society makes her feel. Pieces about being black, woman, Muslims, and culture, are her specialties. She is an aspiring writer, and is well on her way to having her work recognized by the world.
All of us here at Teen Eye Magazine have been following the news about the current tragedies happening against the Black community. We are angry, heartbroken and disgusted about these instances of pure prejudice and brutality. We want to help in any way we can, and be the best allies we can be. We want to raise awareness and highlight the importance of the #blacklivesmatter movement. We would like to feature any teen artists speaking on issues and instances involving police sanctioned violence and the BLM movement. We want to afford young people of the colour a platform whereon they can freely and safely express their voices in a powerful way. If you have any artwork, photographs, or article ideas that discuss these pressing matters, please send them to info@teeneyemagazine.com.
