COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The first Black Poets Festival took place in Columbus on Saturday, bringing together poets, artists, and vendors with the aim of establishing a central hub for Black poets throughout the Midwest.
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The event featured over 40 vendors, a panel discussion, a writing workshop, and more than 15 live performances. Founder and director Jayaira Grhim-Harvey anticipated an attendance of more than 250 people for this inaugural occasion.
Grhim-Harvey explained that the festival was created to connect poets and poetry platforms across the region. She believes poetry can serve as a means of healing while also allowing artists to address important issues like social justice and community concerns.
“I think what’s even more important is having a hub for Black poets to be able to come to,” Grhim-Harvey stated, adding that the festival is intended to be an annual event.
Performance themes were not assigned to the artists, offering them the freedom to express their thoughts on topics significant to them. Grhim-Harvey expressed her hope that attendees would celebrate Black poets, noting the rarity of such gatherings in Columbus.
The festival will continue on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., featuring Young Black Voices, a complimentary event for those aged 13 to 17. This segment will include its own writing workshop, performances, a vendor marketplace, and a performance lab directed by professional poets.