Born: September 13, 1964 Enid, Oklahoma

Quraysh Ali Lansana, poet was born Ron Myles in Enid, Oklahoma. Lansana originally worked in broadcast journalism in Oklahoma, but after he lost his job and discovered the poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks, he moved to Chicago. There he became familiar with the local poetry scene, performing with the poetry groups Brothers in Verse and Wordsmyths. Quraysh has worked extensively in the Chicago Public schools as a teacher and a performing artist. He is the author of two books of poetry, the second of which, "southside rain", is forthcoming from Third World Press. His first children's book was released in 1999 titled "The Big Outside World"