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Orlando’s Poet Laureate Hosts “Voices of Freedom” Residency

Youth poets showcase their talents during the Voices of Freedom residency.

News Summary

Orlando’s Poet Laureate, Shawn Welcome, is set to inspire youth through a week-long poetry residency called “Voices of Freedom.” This initiative targets Black students to enhance their creativity and confidence in poetry. The program culminates in a showcase featuring an all-Black cast in celebration of Black History Month. Welcome’s efforts not only promote artistic expression among the youth but also honor cultural legacies, making a deep impact on the community.

Orlando’s Poet Laureate Inspires Youth with “Voices of Freedom” Poetry Residency

Orlando is buzzing with excitement as Shawn Welcome, the city’s Poet Laureate, gears up to host a remarkable week-long poetry residency! Known for his *spellbinding spoken word performances*, Welcome is on a mission to ignite a passion for poetry among the youth in Central Florida, particularly focusing on Black students. This initiative, dubbed “Voices of Freedom”, aims to empower them to express themselves creatively.

Inspiring a Community through Art

Shawn Welcome isn’t just a name around here; he’s a force of nature! Not only has he performed at major events like Orlando City soccer games and Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations, but he’s also the mastermind behind Orlando’s longest-running open mic night, Diverse Word, which he founded back in 2006. His contributions have created a vibrant space for budding artists and seasoned performers alike to share their talents.

Welcome has a heart for community engagement. From working with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club to assisting students at Oak Ridge High School, he’s dedicated to bringing poetry to all corners of Orlando. His passion extends even to the less fortunate, as he has conducted poetry workshops for inmates at the Orange County Jail, showcasing his belief in the transformative power of expression.

A Focus on Youth and Literacy

The upcoming residency at Edgewater, Ocoee, and Oak Ridge High Schools promises to be a transformative experience for the participating students. Welcome’s focus is on enhancing their creative writing and critical thinking skills while simultaneously *boosting their confidence*. This is no ordinary classroom experience—students will dive deep into the world of poetry, discovering their unique voices and learning to articulate their thoughts and emotions.

The culmination of this incredible week will be the fourth annual “Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word” showcase, taking place on February 7 at the esteemed Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center. This event is a celebration of creativity, talent, and the spirit of community, and it’s not to be missed!

Spotlight on Black Culture

This year’s showcase is particularly special as it will feature an all-Black cast of poetry performers. In honor of Black History Month, the event will explore *rich themes related to the Black experience*, providing a platform for voices that are often unheard. Attendees can look forward to thrilling performances from talented artists, including K-Love The Poet from Chicago and lively entertainment from a local step team and a captivating vocal group presenting theatrical spoken word. DJ T-VEL will be spinning the tracks, ensuring the atmosphere is electric!

A Celebration of Literary Legacy

But that’s not all! As part of his ongoing commitment to the arts and community, Shawn Welcome will also be speaking at the upcoming ZORA! Outdoor Festival of the Arts in Eatonville. This celebration honors the literary icon Zora Neale Hurston, further emphasizing the importance of recognizing cultural legacies and nurturing new talent.

Orlando is surely lucky to have someone like Shawn Welcome at the helm of its literary scene. His dedication to lifting up the community through poetry is both inspiring and necessary. With events like “Voices of Freedom,” he continues to highlight the greatness within the *local community,* showcasing that everyone has a story worth telling. So get ready, Orlando! The magic of poetry is about to unfold right before your eyes.