VSA arts Launches Interactive Online Literary Journal Infinite Difference

March 31, 2005

Debut Celebrates National Poetry Month

Washington, D.C. -- VSA arts today launched an interactive online literary journal showcasing creative writing by students ages 11-18, with a connection to disability. The online journal – Infinite Difference – presents selected pieces from a call for flash fiction and poetry.

Infinite Difference includes poems and creative nonfiction by Ekiwah Adler Beléndez, a young poet from Mexico with cerebral palsy, whose story was featured on NBC Dateline.

“We hope Ekiwah's work and personal story provide a backdrop for the important literary contributions of young people around the world," said Soula Antoniou, president of VSA arts.

"I cannot walk by myself, yet in my poem I not only walk, but give myself license to have eight legs and experience movement. When I read a poem, on an ephemeral level I go to the places the poet describes," said Ekiwah.

VSA arts is proud to provide a forum for these talented voices. Students are invited to read the work of their peers and post comments on the site -- www.vsarts.org. Infinite Difference also offers educators an interactive tool to tackle national writing standards and promote literacy in the classroom.

The call for flash fiction and poetry asked students to “explore the beauty in variety, perceived imperfections, and the infinite complexities of ‘difference.’” A panel of professional writers and teachers judged the submissions and selected a group of ten stories and poems that best exemplify the creative voices that emerge from experiences with disability.

As teaching aids, the stories and poems in Infinite Difference give educators a tangible tool to engage students in the writing process. By reading and responding to the work of their peers, students make personal connections to writing. Visit www.vsarts.org and explore the thought provoking and enjoyable works of the young writers of Infinite Difference.

About VSA arts

VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts. Today as a leader in arts-based teaching and learning, VSA arts' programs support key national education goals: literacy and school readiness, teacher training, and parental involvement in education.

A network of VSA arts affiliates nationwide and in more than 60 countries, develop programs focused on engaging students in the arts by helping teachers create more inclusive learning experiences; empowering artists with disabilities by encouraging their career paths; and supporting arts access to community cultural facilities and activities for people with disabilities.

Media Contacts

Marcia Rhodes, VSA arts, (202) 628-2800 ext. 3883
Reena Shah, VSA arts, (202) 628-2800 ext. 3896

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