Inaugural Raleigh Poet Laureate Program Announced

The City of Raleigh's inaugural Raleigh Poet Laureate Program was announced by Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell during her State of the City Address onMarch 18. The Raleigh Poet Laureate Program is a new initiative designed to elevate poetry as a vital part of civic life and deepen community connections through the literary arts.

In partnership with poets, educators, and cultural leaders, the Raleigh Arts Commission developed a Poet Laureate for the City of Raleigh that will focus on community engagement, youth programming, and creative collaboration across Raleigh's neighborhoods. The selected Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term and serve as an ambassador for the literary arts, the Poet Laureate will create and present new work, lead workshops and public events, and engage residents of all ages in the power of poetry.

The Poet Laureate will be expected to:

• Develop and lead public programs across Raleigh, with an emphasis on youth and community engagement
• Commission and present original works
• Participate in civic and cultural events
• Collaborate with City departments and community partners

Call for Poets: Raleigh Poet Laureate

Raleigh Arts is now accepting applications for the City's inaugural Raleigh Poet Laureate. Raleigh-based poets with a strong record of published or performed work and a commitment to community engagement are encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline: April 17, 2026

Learn more about the Poet Laureate application.

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