The Word is a transformative literary arts program powered by an intergenerational cooperative of diverse, justice-minded spoken word artists. The Word builds community by growing radically inclusive writing and performance programs grounded in poetry, rap, and song. Through its many partnerships, The Word brings a creative life force into social action groups, movements, and institutions – expanding our collective capacity to re-imagine ourselves and our world.
FALL IS FOR THE WORD
A new school year means new voices, new poems, and new opportunities to Lift. Every. Voice. Here’s what’s happening at The Word this fall:
2027 NEW HAVEN YOUTH POET LAUREATE Applications are officially OPEN! We’re searching for the next young poet ready to use their voice, their art, and their platform to represent New Haven. Think that’s you or know a young poet who should apply? Send them our way!
VIRTUAL CV + PORTFOLIO WORKSHOPS Our first workshop kicks off 9/9/26! Join us every Wednesday for the next three weeks from 4–6 PM for workshops designed to help young creatives strengthen their CVs, build their portfolios, and put their best work forward.
BRING THE WORD TO YOUR SCHOOL Teachers, administrators & educators: bring poetry into your classroom this fall! Invite The Word to your school for Poetry Out Loud programming or creative writing workshops tailored specifically to your students and classroom.
Whether you’re ready to apply, build, write, compete, or bring us into your school—we want to hear from you.
Youth Laureates
The Word stewards the selection process for the New Haven and State of Connecticut Youth Poet Laureates.
The Youth Poet Laureate programs recognize and support young writers who demonstrate artistic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to civic engagement through poetry. The programs uplift youth as cultural leaders, using poetry as a tool for advocacy, storytelling, and social impact—locally in New Haven and across Connecticut.
The application for the 2027 New Haven Youth Poet Laureate is open! Scan the QR code for the application