Today marks an exciting development in the city of Newark, NJ, the world of poetry and social change. The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation (Dodge Foundation), together with the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) and Newark’s Mayor Ras J. Baraka, have unveiled their ambitious plans for the 2024 Dodge Poetry initiative. This initiative is a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at using poetry as a powerful tool for driving social change in communities.
The announcement featured notable speakers including John Schreiber, CEO of NJPAC; Tanuja Dehne, President and CEO of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation; and Mayor Ras J. Baraka himself. Ysabel Gonzalez, Poetry Creative Officer at the Dodge Foundation, was also a key speaker at the event.
A highlight of the day was the remarkable poetry performances. Mayor Baraka delivered an emotive recitation of his poem “Digging Max,” a tribute to his late father, the renowned poet and playwright Amiri Baraka. This was followed by an unexpected and stirring performance by the legendary Last Poets – Abiodun Oyewole, Baba Don, and Felipe Luciano – who are recognized for continuing the legacy of the original group formed in 1968 in Harlem.
In addition, attendees were treated to an exceptional performance by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Tyehimba Jess, known for his advocacy of Black voices in literature. He performed his powerful piece, “A Black Man’s Prayer,” highlighting his role as Board President of Cave Canem, an organization dedicated to the artistic and professional development of Black poets.
This new collaboration is fueled by a generous grant from the Dodge Foundation to NJPAC. It aims to extend the reach of Dodge Poetry beyond its traditional biennial poetry festival, which has been hosted at NJPAC since 2010. This expansion will include year-round poetry programs in Newark, including NJPAC’s Horizon Sounds of The City. The goals of these Dodge Poetry events are threefold: mobilize communities for social change, amplify poet activists challenging existing narratives, and create spaces for healing and repair, particularly for those affected by systemic racism.
Mayor Baraka emphasized the transformative power of poetry, stating, “Because poetry impacts hearts so directly, it has great power to transform communities, and give rise to social change, hope, and healing. This year-round poetry program about to ripple through Newark will realize one of my greatest wishes for the city, and I thank the Dodge Foundation and NJPAC for making this happen.”
This partnership marks a significant expansion of Dodge Poetry’s presence in Newark. It aims to engage residents, particularly the youth and community partners, in events that underscore the connection between poetry and social justice.
The initiative’s first event is scheduled for January 26th, featuring a celebration of Max Roach’s centennial with performances from various artists including Mayor Baraka, drummer Nasheet Waits, vocalist Cassandra Wilson, and poets like The Last Poets, Sonia Sanchez, and Saul Williams. This will lead up to the 20th celebration of the Dodge Poetry Festival from October 17-19, 2024.
Tanuja Dehne, President and CEO of the Dodge Foundation, highlighted the expanded vision: “The reimagined Dodge Poetry will extend our reach and focus on artists and activists addressing social justice issues. By holding these events across Newark, we honor the city’s legacy and amplify voices at the forefront of activism for racial justice.”
John Schreiber, President and CEO of NJPAC, added, “We are thrilled to partner with the Dodge Foundation in creating authentic, community-centric programs that use poetry to advocate for social justice and artistic expression.”
The initiative is guided by an Advisory Committee of renowned poets and activists, including Sean Battle, Tamiko Beyer, Naomi Extra, Willie Perdomo, and Vincent Toro. They will shape and steer the events and strategy throughout the year.
Upcoming Dodge Poetry events include a special screening of “Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project” and various other initiatives designed to use poetry as a means of promoting positive social change.
For more information and updates on Dodge Poetry and upcoming events, visit njpac.org/dodgepoetry. The Dodge Poetry Festival is open for submissions from mid-February for those interested in performing.
