The Lament Lab
What Is the Lament Lab?
The Lament Lab is a safe, creative space where youth can process their pain, tell their stories,
and discover their voice through music, poetry, and storytelling.
Using the Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) framework, we teach emotional vocabulary,
performance skills, and collaborative tools that empower young people to transform their
struggles into powerful art, reclaim their voices, and strengthen their future.
Why It’s Needed
• Youth are hurting. Many carry unspoken grief, anger, and shame that often shows up as violence,
withdrawal, or destructive behavior.
• Traditional support isn’t enough. Communities need approaches that combine healing with
creativity, culture, and relevance.
• Lament is a tool of healing. From spirituals to protest chants, lament has always been a way to
turn pain into purpose.
What We Do
• Workshops & Storytelling – Guided writing, journaling, and music creation.
• Creative Expression – Songwriting, poetry, and recording sessions.
• Community Showcase – Youth perform their original works and share their stories.
• Mentorship – Engagement with artists and leaders who reflect youth experiences and struggles.
• SEL Integration – Building skills in self-awareness, self-management, empathy, communication,
and decision-making.
Impact on Youth
• Heals emotional wounds by giving language to pain.
• Builds confidence and self-worth through creative ownership.
• Replaces destructive behaviors with purposeful creativity.
• Creates community connection and belonging.
• Equips youth to be influencers—not just influenced.
• Amplifies voices globally through our distribution platform.
Why Every School & Youth Center Should Have It
The Lament Lab doesn’t just help youth survive it helps them thrive. By integrating healing,
art, and education, schools and centers can:
â– Reduce violence and emotional suppression
â– Increase academic engagement and leadership skills
â– Empower youth to turn pain into power
