Panels
SESSION DETAILS
Panel A: The World of Publishing
May 16th 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Baltimore Unity Hall (Open to All)
A conversation with poets from diverse backgrounds who will share their secrets to successfully making money with poetry and proving you don’t have to be a starving artist. Come listen, ask questions and be engaged as the panelists explore the pitfalls and successes of navigating the business of poetry.
Moderator: Lady Brion
Panelists: Hannah Sawyerr, Rafael Alvarez, Sarah Berger, Destinii Williams
Panel B: Making Money with Poetry
May 16th 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Baltimore Unity Hall (Open to All)
This panel explores the many pathways poets can take to bring their work into the world. Featuring a local press, a literary journal, an editor, and an award winning published author, the conversation will offer a practical look at today’s publishing landscape. Panelists will discuss traditional publishing, independent and self-publishing options, the role of literary journals, and strategies poets can use to move their work from manuscript to audience.
Moderator: Unique the Word
Panelists: Kenneth Something, Ashlee Haze, Freequency, Hannah Sawyerr
Panel C: Perform for Feedback
May 17th 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Baltimore Unity Hall (Open to All)
Are you interested in getting live feedback from a panel of award winning poets? Here is your chance to share a poem and grow in real time. Participants do not have to share a poem. You are also encouraged to attend and listen to other poets, get feedback and learn from the experience.
Moderator: Kenneth Something
Panelists: Ayanna Florence, FreeQuency, Black Chakra
Panel D: A Conversation with Poet Laureates
May 17th 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Baltimore Unity Hall (Open to All)
Maryland Poet Laureate Lady Brion moderates a fireside-style conversation with fellow Poet Laureates from across the region. Blending dialogue and performance, the panel explores the role of the Poet Laureate as a civic voice—examining how poetry engages communities, reflects public life, and responds to the cultural moment. Each participating laureate will also share selections from their work, offering audiences an opportunity to experience their distinct voices and approach.
Moderator: Lady Brion-Maryland
Panelists: Truth Thomas-Howard County, David Alberto Fernánde-Takoma Park