As a distinguished poet, the Poet Laureate represents and celebrates the diversity and history of Illinois by promoting literacy and the art of poetry through making content available and presentations at a range of public, educational, private, and electronic venues – including, but not limited to, schools, libraries, universities, community ...

An ambassador for poetry, the Laureate promotes citizens' awareness of poetry as well as heightens their appreciation of the art form. In sum, the Laureate strives to forge a meaningful communion between poetry and the state's populace.

A senior herself, Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson establishes The Golden Poets Poetry Contest to acknowledge and encourage writers aged 70 and over. Eligibility: Open to all Illinois residents aged 70 and over.

As laureate, Brooks was active in Illinois communities large and small. She developed and organized poetry activities in under-served areas of Chicago, and she heartily encouraged young writers to lend their voices to poetry.

Here you will be introduced to the poets who served as our state's previous Laureates: Howard Austin, Carl Sandburg, and Gwendolyn Brooks. You will discover their personal histories and how those events figured in the poetry they created over their lifetimes.

Illinois Poet Laureate This original poem ‘Giving Thanks’ was included in a New York Times article on November 26, 2020. It was Angela’s first poem as Illinois Poet Laureate.

Angela Jackson is an award-winning poet, novelist, and playwright who has published three chapbooks and four volumes of poetry. Born in Greenville, Mississippi and raised on Chicago's Southside, she was educated at Northwestern University and the University of Chicago.

To commemorate the life of Illinois native John Prine and celebrate his writing and musical contributions, Governor Pritzker has proclaimed Prine as an Honorary Poet Laureate. The legendary singer-songwriter, who was born in Maywood, IL, passed away on April 7, 2020 after contracting COVID-19.

Poetry & Literature Center of the Library of Congress - Features current and previous Poet Laureate information, poetry cybercasts, and archived poetry and literature. Poetry Center of Chicago - Features poetry of the Chicago, Illinois area. poetrypoetry.com - A …

Are you Illinois’ next Poet Laureate? Learn more and submit your application today! Deadline for submission is March 5, 2025.