FIGHTING BIG TOBACCO BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE POWER OF POETRY AND ADVOCACY.
CHICAGO'S GIVING MENTHOL THE BLUES.
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Youth performers will be awarded a certificate and gift card but are not eligible for cash prizes.
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Contest & cash prizes open to Adults 18+
Scroll further to find registration to participate
EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS​​​
THE KROC CENTER
Salvation Army
1250 W 119th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
WHERE ART MEETS ADVOCACY.
WHERE VOICES SPARK CHANGE.
WHERE YOU BELONG.
Join us for an electrifying evening where poetry becomes power, truth takes center stage, and every voice matters.
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The Spoken Word Poetry Contest in Chicago isn’t just another show—it’s a movement. Through the raw, unfiltered power of spoken word, some of the nation’s most talented professional poets—and a new generation of courageous youth voices—will confront the devastating impact of menthol and tobacco addiction in communities across America.
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This is more than performance. It’s personal.
From soul-stirring stories to rallying cries for justice, each poet will deliver original, unforgettable pieces that challenge the tobacco industry's grip on our neighborhoods—and light a fire for a healthier, freer future.
Expect:
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Dynamic live performances that will move you, educate you, and energize you.
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Youth poets who prove that leadership and change know no age.
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Big prizes and a high-energy contest atmosphere where artistry meets activism.
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Raffles, giveaways, and student gift cards to celebrate participation and passion.
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Community unity—you’ll leave inspired, connected, and ready to make a difference.
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Whether you’re an artist, advocate, student, parent, educator, health professional, or simply someone who believes in the power of change—you belong in this room.
Come experience how poetry can heal, ignite, and move communities forward. Together, we’ll turn words into action and inspiration into impact.
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ADMISSION TO ATTEND IS FREE, BUT SEATING IS LIMITED.​
Reserve your spot now and be part of this powerful night.
YOUTH WORKSHOPS PRIOR TO MAIN EVENT
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
YOUTH POETRY WORKSHOPS
(AGES 12 - 17)
SATURDAY - AUGUST 9 - 12PM-3PM
SATURDAY - AUGUST 16 - 12PM-3PM
PHALANX FAMILY SERVICES
837 West 119th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
PARENTAL CONSENT DISCLAIMER FOR YOUTH WORKSHOPS
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Participants under the age of 18 must have permission from a parent or legal guardian to register and participate in any poetry workshops, contests, or events.
By submitting the registration form, you confirm that you have obtained such consent.
REGISTER FOR BOTH DATES AT THE LINKS BELOW
JOIN THE COMPETITION FOR THE MAIN EVENT
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
POETS AT CAPACITY
COMPETE AS A POET
FRIDAY • AUGUST 22, 2025
6:30PM
THE KROC CENTER
Salvation Army 1250 W 119th Street,
Chicago, IL 60643​
Performance spots are limited. First come, first serve.​
Each performance is limited to 5 minutes.
VAPING AND SMOKING CESSATION RESOURCES
GIVING MENTHOL THE BLUES
AN ANTI-TOBACCO CAMPAIGN
Each year 45,000 African Americans die from tobacco-induced diseases.
“The only way for the tobacco industry cartel to continue to rake in their billions in profits is to recruit and addict new replacement smokers. Those replacement smokers are our children, said AATCLC Co-Chair Carol McGruder; we must disrupt their pipeline of death and disease that runs through our communities.” The focus of the AATCLC is to inform and influence the direction of commercial tobacco control as it affects the lives of African American and African immigrant communities. The AATCLC works at the intersection of social injustice, health equity, and public health policy.
Joining forces with The Poet Life, an organization of professional poets, keynote speakers, event coordinators, and facilitators working to create unique and innovative experiences, the AATCLC has launched this campaign that is utilizing poetry and spoken word to touch hearts and minds as they inform and educate communities across the country.