05.03.2026

You may write me down in history

With your bitter, twisted lies,

You may trod me in the very dirt

But still, like dust, I’ll rise.

These powerful lines by Maya Angelou, interpreted during the evening by journalist Aurora Susuri, capture a profound human truth: no matter the injustices, the silences, or attempts to diminish their voices, women always find ways to rise. They rise through solidarity, through the courage to speak, and through the art that unites them.

This spirit of resilience and empowerment was at the heart of the poetic evening “Poetry for Power – Every Day is March 8”, held on March 5, 2026, at Dukagjini Bookstore in Prishtina. In an intimate and reflective atmosphere, poets, journalists, actors, and artists gathered to share words that were not just verses, but statements, memories, and hope.

The evening was moderated by actor Xhejlane Tërbunja, who guided the audience through a poetic journey centered around two key themes: “Gentleness is Not Weakness” and “Behind the Silence.”

The night opened with performances by singer A R B Ë R E S H Ë, whose voice created a sensitive and meditative atmosphere, transforming the space into a place where art and reflection coexisted. Following this, Xhejlane Tërbunja introduced the poetic program with the reading of “Phenomenal Woman,” a tribute to the strength, dignity, and self-awareness of women.

The first panel brought together poets Vlora Konushevci, Sejnur Veshall, Žarko Milenkoviç, and Flutur Mustafa, who explored different dimensions of gentleness through their verses and reflections, showing that sensitivity can often be the deepest form of resistance.

The second panel featured journalists Aurora Susuri, Edita Doli, Ardiana Salihu-Gashi, Iliri Pireva, and Naile Dema-Selmani, who reflected on the theme “Behind the Silence,” sharing experiences and insights about stories often left untold and the importance of giving voice in a society still learning to listen.

Actors Njomëza Ibraj-Fetiu, Artan Geca, Xhevdet Doda, Lulzim Bucolli, and Dukagjin Podrimja demonstrated through performance and reflection that theater and poetry are two forms of the same human endeavor: to reveal truths, share pain, and open spaces for dialogue.

Towards the end, the energy shifted to young poets Hana Ejupi, Alsea Ymeri, and Lind Duraku, who brought a fresh poetic spirit—direct, bold, and vibrant.

“Poetry for Power” was a space where words became solidarity, personal experiences turned into collective memory, and art became a small yet powerful act of resistance.

Because when women share their stories, when verses become bridges between experiences, and when voices unite, a new force emerges—a force that does not need to shout to be heard.

A force that, like Maya Angelou’s words, always declares: We will rise.

This event was organized by Artpolis with the support of FRIEDA, UNFPA, and MKRS.