A historic global poetry event is about to take place!
To date, 650 events in 450 cities and 95 countries will take place on September 24 to promote environmental, social, and political change through poetry. Poets, writers, and artists will create, perform and demonstrate in their communities with a focus on peace, social justice, and environmental sustainability. Poetry demonstrations are being organized in political hotspots such as Madison, Wisconsin and Cairo, Egypt. Poetry and peace gatherings are planned in strife-torn Kabul and Jalalabad. In Mexico there are over 30 events, with 18 poetic actions in Mexico City. Find out what’s happening in your city or offer to organize an event.
Poet and founder Michael Rothenberg started 100 Thousand Poets for Change. He wanted to direct attention to dialog and poetry and away from violent actions and rhetoric.
I’m asking that Richmond poets and readers of poetry — teachers, students, and all poetic word lovers — get involved by participating in Chalking for Poetry.
Find a poem or create one. Choose a poem that celebrates positive living and a sustainable vision for the future. We’ll meet at Cafe Ole (2901 W. Cary St.) in Carytown from noon to 3 on Saturday, September 24. Chalk your poem in the parking lot or along the sidewalk. Get a friend or stranger to join in. Start a conversation. Share your love for poetic expression and your hopes for the planet.
If you can’t make it to Cafe Ole, write the poem on a wall, playground, or any other welcome public space. Take a picture and include it in the official website. (Scroll down on the right to find Richmond VA.) All material is being cataloged at Stanford University.
