Poets encouraged to carry forward the incredible work of Chicago’s inaugural Poet Laureate, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Public Library and the Poetry Foundation to bring poetry to the people - apply from April 17 to May 29, 2025.

CHICAGO—Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), in partnership with Chicago Public Library (CPL) and the Poetry Foundation, today announced that applications for Chicago’s next Poet Laureate will be open from April 17 to May 29, 2025. Launched in 2023 with poet, multidisciplinary artist and educator avery r. young as its inaugural Poet Laureate, the program has brought poetry to public spaces to reflect this city’s vibrancy. The next Poet Laureate will build on this momentum, furthering the city’s commitment to elevating poetry as a force for cultural expression, education and community connection.

“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.”

The application is open to poets working in written and spoken word traditions with a demonstrated history of engagement with Chicago’s literary community. The selected Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term (2026-2027) and receive a $70,000 honorarium for the commissioning of new poetry, public presentations and readings, and the development of public programming, focusing on programs for 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.”

"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," said Chris Brown, Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library. "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. Through our partnership in the Poet Laureate initiative, we are ensuring poetry continues to inspire, challenge and unite Chicago."

“The Chicago Poet Laureate program is such an impactful way to honor the contributions, history, and legacy of poetry and poets of Chicago,” said Poetry Foundation president and CEO, Michelle T. Boone. “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.”

How to Apply to be the Poet Laureate

Applications for the Chicago Poet Laureate are now open through May 29. Chicago-based poets with deep ties to the city’s literary community, a commitment to community engagement and a passion for making poetry more accessible to residents are encouraged to apply.

Two optional information sessions will be offered:

• Virtual: Thursday, April 24, from noon–1 p.m.
• In-person: Saturday, April 26, from 1–2 p.m. at Harold Washington Library

To view the eligibility criteria, learn about information sessions and apply, visit chicago.gov/PoetLaureate.

Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
The City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. As a collaborative cultural presenter, arts funder, and advocate for creative workers, our programs and events serve Chicagoans and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, downtown and in diverse communities across our city — to strengthen and celebrate Chicago. DCASE produces some of the city’s most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city — serving a local and global audience of 25 million people. The Department offers cultural grants and resources, manages public art, supports TV and film production and other creative industries, and permits special events throughout Chicago. For details, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE and stay connected via our newsletters and social media.

Chicago Public Library
Since 1873, Chicago Public Library (CPL) has encouraged lifelong learning by welcoming all people and offering equal access to information, entertainment, and knowledge through innovative services, programs, and technology. Through its 81 locations, the Library provides free access to a rich collection of materials, both physical and digital, and presents the highest quality author discussions, exhibits, and programs for children, teens, and adults. For more information, please call (312) 747-4300 or visit chipublib.org. To follow CPL on social media, visit us on X (@chipublib), Facebook (Chicago Public Library), or Instagram (@chicagopubliclibrary).

Poetry Foundation
The Poetry Foundation recognizes the power of words to transform lives. We work to amplify poetry and celebrate poets by fostering spaces for all to create, experience, and share poetry. Follow the Poetry Foundation and Poetry magazine on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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