Lifelong Social Justice Advocate and Poet Diana Wilkens Reflects on Creativity, Heartbreak, and Self-Love

Wilkens shares her passion for language, witnessing movements against injustice, and finding joy in the simple things like tacos and margaritas.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Diana Wilkens, a lifelong social justice advocate, poet, and educator, opens up about her creative process, dealing with heartbreak, and what she loves most about herself. Wilkens has fought for marriage equality and GENDA in New York, teaches college-level literature and writing, and works full-time advocating for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes. In this interview, she reflects on her earliest memories of being creative, the regrets she's overcome, and the things that bring her the most joy and pride.

Why it matters

Wilkens' story provides a glimpse into the life of a multifaceted individual who has dedicated her career to fighting for social justice and using her creative talents to enact change. Her openness about her personal experiences with heartbreak, self-reflection, and finding purpose through her work offers inspiration and insights that resonate with many.

The details

Wilkens, who uses she/they pronouns, discovered her passion for poetry at age 16 after attending her first reading and feeling an immediate sense of belonging. She has since channeled her love of language into her work as a poet, teacher, and advocate. Wilkens is currently writing a memoir, a process that has surfaced some of her biggest regrets, including not fully understanding the death of her sister until a few years ago. To cope with heartbreak, Wilkens has turned to writing, music, and quality time with friends. While she doesn't cry often, Wilkens says she is moved to tears when she feels completely broken or frustrated. Despite the challenges she has faced, Wilkens takes immense pride and joy in her accomplishments, which she sees as reminders of her growth and resilience.

  • Wilkens attended her first poetry reading at age 16.
  • Wilkens is currently writing a memoir.

The players

Diana Wilkens

A lifelong social justice advocate, poet, and educator who has fought for marriage equality and GENDA in New York, teaches college-level literature and writing, and works full-time advocating for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes.

Seren Divine

An out queer woman and poet who read a poem about loving women at the poetry reading Wilkens attended at age 16, inspiring Wilkens to start writing poetry.

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What they’re saying

“I think the thing I like doing the most is being creative and sharing that love for language with the world and creating change. I have worked my entire life in social justice advocacy and to see movements flourish and stand up to injustices is invigorating.”

— Diana Wilkens (printmag.com)

“I am one of those people that doesn't cry often – I think because somewhere along the way I got numb to loss and difficulty. For me to cry, I must be completely broken, frustrated and feeling like there is nowhere to go.”

— Diana Wilkens (printmag.com)

The takeaway

Wilkens' story highlights the power of creativity, resilience, and a deep commitment to social justice. Her openness about her personal journey, from discovering her passion for poetry to grappling with heartbreak and loss, offers a relatable and inspiring portrait of a multifaceted individual who has found purpose in using her voice and talents to enact positive change.