Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson, in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Chicago Public Library (CPL), and the Poetry Foundation, has opened applications for the position of Chicago’s next Poet Laureate. The application period began on April 17 and will end on May 29, 2025. This program, which started in 2023, initially appointed poet avery r. young. The aim is to bring poetry to public spaces across the city.

"‘For generations, poetry has been the heartbeat of Chicago, giving voice to our history, struggles, and triumphs,’ said Mayor Brandon Johnson. ‘The Chicago Poet Laureate program ensures that this legacy continues and that the transformative power of poetry is in our communities. I encourage all poets to apply who embody the spirit of our city and can help write the next chapter of our shared story.’"

Applicants should be poets working in written or spoken word with a background in Chicago’s literary community. The Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term (2026-2027) and will receive a $70,000 honorarium. The funding is intended for new poetry, public presentations, and community programming with a focus on engaging youth and students.

"‘This program is a testament to the power of artistic expression, and we are excited to continue nurturing creativity and connection throughout our communities,’ said DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth. ‘We look forward to supporting the next Poet Laureate in their journey to inspire and uplift the diverse voices of Chicago.’"

CPL Commissioner Chris Brown highlighted the library's historical contribution to poetry: "‘Chicago’s libraries have long been a home for poetry—where Gwendolyn Brooks read and where the legacy of Langston Hughes lives in our archives,’ he stated. ‘Today, that tradition thrives—Nate Marshall, Chance the Rapper, and Noname have shaped and shared their voices within our libraries, proving that poetry remains a living force in Chicago.’"

Poetry Foundation president and CEO Michelle T. Boone also expressed enthusiasm for the program’s impact: "‘The Chicago Poet Laureate program is such an impactful way to honor the contributions, history, and legacy of poetry and poets of Chicago,’ she said. ‘As a premier city of literature, this program ensures that current and future generations of poets have ample platforms to share their poetic talents and help foster new audiences for the art form.’"

Poets interested in applying are encouraged to do so through the portal chicago.gov/PoetLaureate, which provides eligibility criteria and details on optional information sessions.

Both DCASE and CPL, along with the Poetry Foundation, continue to support and enhance the creative landscape in Chicago by providing artists and cultural entities with resources, strengthening artistic communities, and delivering services aimed at engaging diverse audiences.