"And then Tamir" Book Signing with Boris "Bluz" Rogers

And then Tamir is a book of poetry by award-winning poet, author and performing artist Boris “Bluz” Rogers. This poetry collection was written as a reflection on the deaths of people of color by police since Tamir Rice’s murder. Each poem starts with "and then Tamir" followed by Bluz offering his poetic perspective surrounding the tragic events of each person. The author’s frustration and anger at Tamir's death and all the deaths that followed – that no one seemed to care about – birthed this powerful book of poetry. Bluz did not want Tamir’s name (and the names of countless others) and what happened to be forgotten.

A Note From The Author

"This started off as an idea, as a reflection to injustice, as a place for me to vent my frustrations. This started off very small, just a few words to express the anger, the hurt. This book is the culmination of all those thoughts addressed to a boy cut in seconds. I wanted it to be a bell sound that continues to echo his name and the names of the victims, so we will not forget them and how they were taken. To not forget them in this climate of shootings that happen so fast we don't have the time to process or even mourn the last victim. This book is dedicated to every survivor of a traffic stop, every parent who won't get their child back, to anyone affected by senseless violence, and to those who have been fighting and are still fighting."

About The Author

Boris “Bluz” Rogers has been unwavering in his quest to stretch the boundaries of poetry. Bluz is an award winning poet having won three Emmy Awards, been a 2010 Southern Fried Poetry Slam winner, and is Slam Master and Coach of 2007, 2008 and 2018 National Poetry slam Championship team, Slam Charlotte.

A published author and recording artist, Bluz’ poetry is universal, dismantling social, economic, and ethnic barriers reaching into the heart of the community where he is an active member. He has worked with several organizations such as CBS Radio, Disney, Raycom Sports, ESPN and SPEED TV, where he wrote and performed several intros for nationally televised shows for NASCAR. Bluz’ voice is a progressive tool used to foster transformation. Nowhere has Bluz’ impact been more apparent than when he performed at the induction ceremony for the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame opening and Bluz being, not only the first performer, but also the first African-American performer, was a historic event. His talent and voice has also been used by the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Hornets.

Bluz has shared the stage with many distinguished poets and recording artists ranging from Taylor Mali, and Nikki Giovanni, to Outkast, John Legend, and Pink Floyd, he devotes his time to his family, his wife, and children. This is Bluz.