Meet La Toya A. Hampton, MSW | Educator, Filmmaker & Poet

We had the good fortune of connecting with La Toya A. Hampton, MSW and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La Toya A., why did you pursue a creative career?

When I first began performing poetry in 2008, it was primarily an extension of the self-expression of what had been, for the most part, my private thoughts, and writings. It also occurred during a transitional period, in which I was moving for the very first time ever from my hometown of Portland, Oregon to Long Beach, California to pursue my Masters of Social Work. And so, what better divine timing to choose to debut as a spoken word poet on the cusp of my exit of everything I had ever known, into the next phase of my life? If I bombed, I would get on a plane and would be away for at least two years. But I didn’t bomb. And although I didn’t perform frequently, I kept going. I would ultimately take on the stage name, “Lady Rose,” (now, The Poet Lady Rose) to honor my father, Roosevelt. I eventually lost my inspiration and desire to write and perform. Between 2013 and 2020, I performed twice and had only started poems that I didn’t finish. That all changed in the early months of the COVID pandemic. The world was put on pause. As an overthinker who often kept myself busy to avoid heavy life stuff, that was one of the worst things that could happen. I realized I needed an outlet. I needed community. And I found my way back to writing. The gift of the in-person isolation of the pandemic, not only gave me the gift of connecting back with my writing, but also connecting with communities virtually all over the nation and even around the world. Poetry allowed me to release and express myself in a healthy way. It gave my thoughts and words life and validation. It gave me connection. It gave me my confidence and power back during a time I felt unsure and powerless. People expressed how inspirational not just my words were to them, but also my vulnerability, honesty and authenticity were, as well. My words and the way I expressed those words carried weight and some found value in them, beyond a cute time-filler. I had a passion to share my poetry not for attention for the sake of my ego, but to inform and empower others, while not being beholden to someone else’s schedule which would limit when and where I could do it. And I believed in that mission and myself so much, that it couldn’t be just a hobby or a side thing, I wanted to make it my “career.” Taking it on as a career gives it prominence and an urgence that validates the need to make it a priority and validates its value to not just me, but to so many and the power of its potential to create lasting positive change, not just in people, but systems.

Once I made that decision, many doors opened. Some highlights just in the last year include performing for Resmaa Menakem, the New York Times Bestselling Author of My Grandmother’s Hands and The Quaking of America. I made my first short film, Petals and Thorns: A Spoken Word Journey that follows a group of Black youth’s experiences participating in an intensive writing and spoken word camp facilitated by me, which culminated in a final performance open to the public. I performed for Oregon State’s House of Representatives at Oregon’s State Capitol. I’ve begun giving talks on the power of spoken word poetry and all the many places it belongs and how it can contribute to change. My work has been published in several publications and has been included in gallery shows. And my first full-length poetry book, “Holes of a Piece of Me: An Introduction to Lady Rose,” is in the works.

Always a multi-hyphenate, I’m a former mental health therapist with a Masters of Social Work, former English major, and an educator/instructor across all age groups, as well as diverse backgrounds and abilities, with a passion for youth, but especially Black and brown youth. It is my goal to combine all of my knowledge, skills and experience in these areas, using literary and performing arts as the umbrella to provide other education, services and resources that contribute to healthy individuals, families and communities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I think it’s important to note, and perhaps surprisingly, that I am an introvert and someone who doesn’t really like or crave the attention that being a performer or otherwise being an educator or public speaker brings. You won’t find me at every open mic, and I may resist the urgence of others to get up on stage when they spot me in the audience, especially if my intention in coming was to enjoy the show like everyone else. With that being said, I authentically share and want to. I love it and am confident doing so, but once I’m done, I tend to be quiet and an observer. I take a lot in and learn so much that way. I’m happy to coach, encourage and empower others to step into the spotlight and use their voice, even sharing my stage time with someone, if the right circumstance allows. I think that personality trait sets me apart from others in how I view the scene and how I move in and through it.

My poems, their subjects and spoken word style of delivery have always been diverse and eclectic. A lot of my skill and artistic choices in my writing are intuitive. I am more influenced by music, particularly (and passively) Hip-Hop, than by having a favorite writer or poet, although, my cadence and voice doesn’t always reflect it. Shout out to Tobe Nwigwe! In my efforts to stretch and grow, more and more, I am challenging myself to be more of a student of literary arts and study other poets and artists, in general. In high school, I was a First Chair clarinet player and got a clarinet during the pandemic, hoping to eventually incorporate that into my artistic arsenal. Last year, I returned to my dormant Spanish ability and translated one of my pieces and wrote a new piece in Spanish and performed them at Spanish-language events. Last year also marked my first foray into filmmaking, as well as coupling digital art with my poetry. I have also been feeling pulled to include movement as an accompaniment to my poetry. I would love to dive deeper into expanding these practices and bring them together in a unique package and presentation that is the art of The Poet Lady Rose.

For those new to my work, my most popular and requested pieces are, “Brown Knows,” which speaks to my experience as a light-skinned Black girl and woman, growing up in Portland, Oregon, one of the whitest metropolitan cities in the US. This piece was also featured in the documentary “Black Girl in Suburbia” by Melissa Lowery. You can catch excerpts of “Brown Knows” in the movie trailer and the entire piece is strategically placed throughout the film. In my poem “Awakening (Rebirth),” I speak about how each day you wake up is a rebirth or your birthday. I start the poem with, “Some years ago on July 14th, was the day I was presented to the Earth, but that was not the only day of my birth,” also, “Lately, I seem to be waking up to a person I barely know, and yet, I am more sure of myself than ever before, meeting a new me each day I wake, and realizing that I’ve experienced another birthday.” It is also a tribute poem of sorts, as I name some folks who were instrumental in my development and growth during that time, leading up to my move to Los Angeles to go to get my Masters. My piece, For Mo, which is guaranteed to have folks (and maybe me) shedding tears, was written as a tribute poem to a fellow Portland artist when I learned of her ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2013. It was important for me to give her her flowers while she was here. I was able to share that poem with her prior to her making her transition in 2020. Interestingly, that poem has now come to resonate with the isolation of family and friends imposed by the policies and illness resulting from the COVID pandemic. These are just a few examples of the diversity of my poetry. The current major themes of my work focus on Black Pride, Black Power, identity, spirituality and healing the Mother Wound.

Prior to COVID, although I wrote about social justice and other hot button issues, I rarely shared them publicly for fear of backlash. The increase in the unfortunate events of police brutality, racism and other social injustices has shifted that for me quite a bit. I have been writing a bit more, speaking to injustices, while juxtaposing the divinity, gifts, brilliance, defiance, resistance, and resilience of Black folks. I owe it to those who came before me, including my Daddy who fled Jim Crow South Mississippi to Portland, Oregon for a better life in the 1960’s, as well as those who look to me and who will come after me, to give a more full, well-rounded picture of what we’ve been through, and have yet to go beyond, while acknowledging our greatness. As one of my poems says, share the “valuable lessons and beautiful scars.” Overall, I would say that my art reflects well my Cancer qualities. It is emotional, yet authentic. That it has the simultaneous ability to express hurt and provide hope.

While reflecting on my journey as an artist, I think what I am most proud of currently is the growth and progress I’ve experienced in just the last year. A huge leap and accomplishment for me was making my first film with zero experience. It was probably the most challenging thing I’ve ever done. I’m hard on myself and have high expectations for myself, in general, and even though I had no experience in filmmaking, I somehow still had a bar for myself. It’s not just about the making of the film, it was the focus of the film, Black youth and the ability of writing and spoken word to give them a voice, and my part in that. From ideation to the first screening was about two months. And it took me about another two months to fully recognize and own that accomplishment. Was it perfect? No. But the more I see it, the more I love it, and the more pride I have in it. And the more potential I see that it has to move, inspire and empower people. Which, in turn, bolsters the feeling of empowerment and capability I have of doing more for me, my people and those who long to express themselves and have their voices heard, especially our youth.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are not to be so hard on myself, to give the gentleness, patience, and grace to me that I encourage others to give themselves. To also be in the present. Amongst the many lessons this COVID-era should have taught us was to slow down and be in the present. Don’t rush into experiences and don’t rush past. Be in it. Take it in. Let it settle and marinate. Live in it. Experience it. Give the love and care to yourself that you feel others should have given you. Share it. Rest, but don’t quit.

I’ve also learned to think and dream bigger; that poetry belongs everywhere. I performed my poem “Words” at the Oregon State Capitol for the Oregon State House of Representatives. My poem spoke to the power of words, as well as living out your words or basically walking your talk. I got the chance to recite this poem in front of 60-plus politicians, an opportunity to give a subtle nudge to them to do what they say they are going to do, to keep the promises they made to the people who got them in office. Is it the equivalent to joining in on a Black Lives Matter protest? That’s debatable. But I say that it’s still a form of activism. Poetry and art in general, has the power to inform and cause examination and self-reflection. And from there, possibly spark thought. And from there, influence action and change. You have the attention of people. Maybe they think they are just coming to be entertained but have the choice of putting a spoonful of sugar in the medicine or just giving them the raw of what’s f*cked up, straight-up with no chaser. Even if they don’t agree with you, at the very least, your words may stay with them for a very long time, giving them something to think about and wrestle their conscience with, long after you leave the stage.

I’m excited to see where my art will take me and others along with me. For the past year, I have been mostly strategic with my decisions regarding my performances, projects, and meetings I take. I have seen the power of art and poetry. I see my strengths, knowledge, skills, perspectives, and the passion I bring to it in a way that has the ability to do so much more beyond an entertainment event. It is my desire to combine my background in mental health, youth, and family advocacy, and literary and performing arts to serve Black/BIPOC communities. The challenges that could be faced in bringing this to fruition, are getting people who award funding to see the connections, see the vision. The only other and probably even bigger challenge, if any, would be me standing in my own way. And based on what I’ve overcome in just the past three years, and not even counting other experiences over my lifetime, I know that I can do all things…and I want to do my part to help as many as I can, to feel that the same is possible for them, too.

I look forward to continuing to share my art and soul with those who have been here with me from the start of this journey, as well as welcoming those who are just meeting me through this article.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Visiting Portlandia, you say?! And yes, there ARE Black people in Portland! ; ) Well, if you are with me and you are visiting Portland, I would take you to Third Eye Books, the only Black-owned and Black/BIPOC-centric bookstore in Oregon. They have such a large and diverse collection, considering the small size of the store. I promise you will fill your basket up. Don’t want to pay for all those heavy books on the plane ride home? No worries, you can have those books shipped to you. Third Eye Books recently opened their companion location in the same block, Third Eye Wholistic Wellness, that features metaphysical and altar-related items, incense, candles, body care, herbal apothecary, CBD infused products, merch, greeting cards, and a vibroacoustic massage table! Co-owner Michelle is also a Reiki Master, Sound Vibrational Healer, and Biofield Tuning Practitioner. Whether you go to the bookstore or their complementary wellness store and gift shop, you will feel a welcoming and peaceful energy like no other, with stimulating and thought-provoking conversation, as well!

There are so many food places to choose from, whether you prefer indoor seating or love food carts. I’m vegan, so I would take you to Mestizo’s down the street from Third Eye Books. Also, Siri Thai for bomb Thai food and The Matador for yummy margaritas. For the meat eaters, I hear that Kee’s Loaded Kitchen and Heavy Plays are good. For dessert, I would Gluten Free Gem or The Yard Milkshake Bar. Portland is also home to Kann Restaurant, owned by Top Chef winner Gregory Gourdet. Oh, and I would take you to Black Girl Brunch! We are known for our food scene, so the choice is up to you!

We are in the Pacific Northwest where it rains a lot, but that also means we have beautiful scenery and enjoy the outdoors when we can. Being that we are the City of Roses, we have a number of rose gardens, Peninsula Park, the Gardens at Ladd’s Addition and the Rose Garden at Forest Park. There’s also the Rhododendron Garden. Forest Park is also popular for hikes, as well as Mt. Tabor and Washington Parks. Both the Portland Japanese Garden and Lan Su Chinese Garden are popular. A short drive away is Multnomah Falls and so many other falls. Depending on the time of year, we could go to Mt. Hood for snow and ski-lovers or along the Oregon Coast about 90 minutes to 2 hours away from the city of Portland. We also have plenty of museums, farmers markets and even a Black-owned winery, Abbey Creek Vineyard.

There is also a great arts scene here, so, I would take you to a play at Portland Playhouse or Portland Center Stage. I might also take you to a dance performance put on by White Bird or an African dance performance by the Sebe Kan dancers and maybe even a class if you are up to it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I want to acknowledge my Creator and give honor to my Daddy, Roosevelt Hampton, after whom I took my stage name The Poet Lady Rose. He exhibited so much love, kindness, grace, gratitude, hard work, and integrity. He passed away in 2000 and I make sure that as long as I have breath in my body and the ability to speak, that his name will never die. I miss him dearly. “And although you gave me my first name, I took your first, so that ‘Roosevelt Hampton’ could still walk the Earth.”

To my Aunt Elvira Hudson (my Daddy’s sister), who has always been in my life and has never wavered, especially after the passing of my father, even during her most challenging times, whenever possible, she has literally been there to support me in so many endeavors. She has been such an inspiration and continues to be at age 89, either walking or working out in the gym every day. So many wish to be like her when they grow up!

I want to acknowledge Janice Booker, who is like a mother to me. She saw my potential early in serving my community nearly 30 years ago and continues to be one of my biggest fans and supporters.

I want to recognize Michelle Lewis and Charles Hannah of Third Eye Books, the only Black-owned bookstore in Oregon, who were early supporters during the initial reemergence of The Poet Lady Rose. They were not only encouraging but were generous in providing a performance space in their store, and extended the invite to perform during Resmaa Manekem’s tour stop in Portland. They are also to be admired for the work they have done in establishing and growing their presence as not just the only Black-owned bookstore in Oregon, but the community hub they have created. Their work and accomplishments have definitely inspired me to dream bigger.

To Dr. Sonja Vegdahl, who, during my matriculation in Concordia University Portland’s undergraduate Social Work program (now closed) and the Director over that program, encouraged me to pursue my Masters in Social Work. At the time, I just wanted to accomplish the goal that my Daddy wanted to obtain my 4-year degree, but she saw more.

To Dr. Jay Breslow. a preceptor during my undergrad experience, wrote a recommendation letter to get in Cal State Long Beach’s Master of Social Work program (I got in!) and encouraged me to get my Doctorate (I don’t think so lol), saying, “The world needs you.” Oof.

I also want to shout out Blacque Butterfly (Darlene Solomon-Rogers) for being one of my early encouragers and supporters when I started performing.

And to so many that have shared space and supported me during this rebirth by attending an event, referring/recommending me for a gig, publishing my work and/or donating to a cause, including but not limited to my Cali Peeps (Alex Petunia, Karo Ska, Mauricio Moreno, Hiram Sims, Sims Library of Poetry, Jessica Wilson, Los Angeles Poet Society) Oregon Peeps (Donovan Scribes, Community Alliance of Tenants, Amber Starks/Melanin Mvskoke, Carl Conner, The Arts Center, Charles Grant, Portland Playhouse). Oh, and my therapists and bodyworkers! Black people (and everybody) go to therapy! And if you can, get you a Black therapist!

If I missed you, just know I appreciate everyone who has had a hand in the creation of me, especially in my continued development as a human, world citizen and The Poet Lady Rose. Here’s to forward movement!

Peace, Love & Poetry,

The Poet Lady Rose

Website: www.ThePoetLadyRose.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoetladyrose

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latoyaahamptonmsw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepoetladyrose

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thepoetladyrose

Other: https://linktr.ee/ThePoetLadyRose https://www.facebook.com/la.t.hampton

Image Credits
The Poet Lady Rose with locs/hair down facing front with mic: Image credit: Kateshia Pendergrass The Poet Lady Rose performing with head down and black background. Image credit: Intisar Abioto

Photo Captions
Photo 2: The Poet Lady Rose and her father Roosevelt
Photo 3: Marquee featuring Petals and Thorns documentary screening.
Photo 5: The Poet Lady Rose performing at AfroTopia Festival in Portland, Oregon
Photo 6: The Poet Lady Rose performing “Words” for the Oregon State House of Representatives
Photo 8: The Poet Lady Rose performing during her one-woman show, “Holes of a Piece of Me: An Introduction to Lady Rose” in 2013 at Headwaters Theatre in Portland, Oregon
Photo 9: The Poet Lady Rose conducting a Q&A with the youth poets featured in the short film Petals and Thorns: A Spoken Word Journey