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.
The Word Lit Cyphers 2021-22
In 2021-2022 The Word in conjuction with our teaching artists gathered musicians, poets, and creators of all ages – including young people from our residencies and Weekly Word Workshops - in a celebratory Lit Cypher. Lit Cyphers featured a different theme each month, special guest performers, a lightning writing workshop for audience members, and an open mic where participants share new work.
Wordfest 2021-2022 JAM
CITYWIDE YOUTH POETRY JAMS
Young poets, spoken word artists and rappers from dozens of New Haven schools, organizations and beyond share their work in a non-competitive celebration of youth voice and power.
Citywide Youth Poetry Jams 2018-2019
lift.every.voice
Photos by Judy Rosenthal
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In 2018-201 The Word culminated with a public performance called The Citywide Youth Poetry Jam that served the students, their families, and community members. Typically, we host the annual Citywide Youth Poetry Jam during National Poetry Month in April. At the events, student poets and guests have the opportunity to perform their work for their peers and community.