Mahlaynee Cooper

Last month, the news started following the story of 18-year-old Nolan Wells, a young Black man who went missing and was later found dead under unclear circumstances — leading to far-reaching criticisms about how the case was handled. And tragically, Wells' case isn't isolated. There have been several other similar stories this year. It's an upsetting, emotional, and complicated topic — one this week's commentary, from Wilmington-based spoken word artist Mahlaynee Cooper, addresses in her poetry.

Mahlaynee Cooper is a poet, teaching artist, and the founder of Speak Ya Peace NC.

Mahlaynee Cooper is a poet, teaching artist, and the founder of Speak Ya Peace NC.WHQR commentaries don’t necessarily reflect the views of WHQR Public Media, its editorial staff, or its members.