Zahra Glenda Baker, she/her/they (Poet) is a Louisiana-born artist whose diverse talents as a vocalist, storyteller, poet, ritualist and teaching artist have enhanced the Chicago arts scene for over 35 years. She focuses on interpreting human experiences and advocating for liberation. A guardian of African American oral traditions, Zahra is deeply engaged in community and cultural expression. Zahra has performed at the National Black Storytelling Festival, World Music Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival and is currently developing a performance This Black is Me: Sacred Encounters with Callie Guy House.