Danielle Jasmine (Ms. D)

Danielle Jasmine (Ms. D) was raised in the Bronx then relocated to upstate, NY at age twelve. She was deeply affected by the cultural differences between people so close in proximity, yet mentally so far apart. Due to her politically radical upbringing, she was exposed to many issues involving race, gender, sexuality, and international struggles. She performed first at age fourteen and fell in love with the power of spoken word. Her self- published collection of poetry, entitled “Confessions of a Freaky Soul Sista” debuted in 2006. Expressed through various poetic styles from absolute structure to uninhibited free verse, are the soulful perceptions of a white woman from a culturally- rich, yet politically devastated people. She graduated from SUNY New Paltz (Bachelors in English and Minors in Creative Writing and Black Studies) and Orange County Community College (Associates in Liberal Arts). Her writing experience spans genres such as poetry, literary criticism, feature essays, and autobiographical memoir. She has performed as the sole feature artist for shows including The Second Annual Smokin’ Spoken Wordz Slam in Monticello and Sleuth Pro’s Poetry Showcase at the Cubby Hole Café in Poughkeepsie. Her poetic affiliations include Roses and Bread Collective produced by Resistance in Brooklyn (RnB- a political activist organization), SUNY New Paltz’s 2004 National College Slam Team (placed 7th in the Nation), Sullivan County’s Smokin’ Spoken Wordz (artist performance collective), Newburgh, NY’s Nu- Poet Productions (community based poetry group) and Atlanta, GA's Rhythm of My Essence (spoken word entertainment company). Her unique style can only be described as a cross between soulful cultural expression and politically radical content. This blend of extremes is what sets her apart from other artists as she stuns the audience with her words, opens their minds with her unique experience, and entertains them with her soulful rhythm. She appreciates any opportunity to share her work with others, whether through literature or performance, and continues to thrive as an artist.