by Sharon H. Chang

AMANUEL GEBREYESUS smiles kindly when I step into the boiler room at Orca K-8 School in Lakewood. It’s a school day and work day. The sign by the door reads, “Amanuel Gebreyesus, Custodian,” but the floor inside is blanketed with stunning portraits of famous African American men. The paintings are propped against walls and machinery. An easel and some other drawing supplies sit in a corner. Amanuel glances at me, grinning modestly and somewhat shyly, as my eyes grow wide with surprise. Continue reading Emerald Voices: Amanuel Gebreyesus →