Sacrificial Poets Bio and Interview Questions

Sacrificial Poets-
Established in 2005, Sacrificial Poets was formerly known as the Chapel Hill Slam Team. However, the name was changed after the tragic murder of Irina “Ira” Yarmolenko on May 5, 2008. Ira was one of the founding team members. Ira set the tone, not only through her spoken word, but also as a team leader and inspiration to all of those around her. She demonstrated unrelenting commitment and sacrifice to the success of the team and to the spoken word movement. Therefore, the team decided to change its name to the “Sacrificial Poets” to commemorate her legacy and contribution.

1)    What was your relationship with Irina?

2)    How was Irina involved in founding the group?

3)    Why was the group formed?

4)    What is the poetry club’s mission/purpose?

5)    Why was the name changed after her death?

6)    What were some of Irina’s strengths as a poet and as an artist in general?

7)    Do you have a favorite poem, written by Irina?

8)    How do you remember Irina?

9)    How did you become aware of Irina’s death?

10) What changed after she was killed?