Tahirah J. Walker, Ph.D.
Publications and Presentations Coming Soon
First Drafts
Disappointment
Is probably the most complex feeling I get because it feels bad but comes from so many good things –
Tough
A reflection on being labeled “tough” in academia. I reject this and emphasize my desire for students to feel nurtured and excited in my classes. My true personality is soft and loving. I am not an oppressive stereotype.
Today’s Truth
Three months ago, I struggled with grief and dismay about a tragic death. Attending a joyous wedding recently brought me a sense of hope and gratitude, but also heightened the awareness of societal injustices and the need to work for a better world for future generations.
Stevie and the Goodbye Summer
A small and drafty piece about a long and difficult summer that I only survived by having my Stevie Wonder songs at the ready. I’ll edit eventually. Sometimes you just gotta get it on a page.
Mother’s Day with Jesmyn Ward
Well, it’s the day after Mother’s Day but I know the holiday will be on my mind tonight when she
What’s 76 minus 35 to an 8th grader whose dad is dying?
It’s my dad’s birthday. I’m thinking about the 35 years since I last saw him.
Dear Eusebia
I was 22 when my tears first learned to harden in my eyes. A daughter of Africa, Virginia and Newark, I found myself closest to what I would call home in a hospital along the Artibonite River.
Interview With the Vampire and Me
Am I going to watch season one of the new Interview with the Vampire TV Series a 3rd time? This is the question I’m trying to answer in between parenting, meetings, classes and my “real” writing projects. The answer is yes.