Find Chicago’s First Poet Laureate

Chicago is looking for its first official Poet Laureate.

The mayor’s office, in partnership with the Chicago Public Library, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the Poetry Foundation, announced Wednesday the creation of the city’s first Chicago Poet Awards program.

The poets selected will serve a two-year term and will be given a $50,000 grant to commission new poetry and create a series of public programs, including programs for youth and students, the mayor’s office said. The poet also serves as an ambassador for the city’s literary and creative community.

“Chicago has always been a city filled with talented and celebrated storytellers and artists,” said Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Forging new ties between the creative community and Chicago, we look forward to selecting a Poet Laureate who will contribute to and strengthen our city’s literary and creative communities.”

nomination You can submit online until January 18thCandidates can be poets in the written or spoken tradition but must have “at least four published works and/or performances in established publications” . According to the city homepagelists additional eligibility requirements. Accept self-nominations.

Candidates will be screened according to eligibility criteria and qualified persons will be invited to apply.

The winner will be formally appointed in the spring. In his April, National Poetry Month, the winners will present their work as part of the Chicago Public Library’s annual Poetry Festival.

“The Poetry Foundation is pleased to support efforts to establish the Chicago Poet Laureate Program, which recognizes the role of poets in Chicago, whose poetry has a rich and meaningful heritage. It’s exciting to imagine all the ways we can help create a promising future through poetry while shedding light.