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.
In 2022, The Word Blossomed...
WHAT WE DO
WRITING LIBERATION
Students that participate in the Writing Liberation workshops at Neighborhood Music School the individuals that attend they are searching for ways to become stronger writers. The Teaching Artists are stimulating growth, developing future artists and creating a sense of community.
LIT CYPHERS
The Lit Cyphers are a monthly cumulation of all the work the youth do in the weekly workshops. The students come together to share their poems they have been working on throughout the week. Some students perform them in the form of spoken word, rap, storytellers and other forms of literary art. At times musicians will collaborate with students to enrich the performance.
WORDFEST
Wordfest was held in conjunction with the International Arts & Ideas Festival in New Haven. There were two Poetry Slams one for youth and one for adults. The Youth Slam was held on the New Haven green. There was a huge turnout! The youth poets competed for prizes and to gain performance experience! The audience loved watching everyone perform and the youth enjoyed sharing the stage with their fellow artists.