On April 29, Loudoun Community Press (LCP) announced the launch of the Loudoun County Youth Poet Laureate – a new chapter of the National Youth Poet Laureate Program. Since 2016, six National Youth Poet Laureates have performed on some of the nation’s largest stages, including the White House, Library of Congress, and Kennedy Center.

This initiative aims to elevate voices at the forefront of change by collaborating with local art and literary organizations. It is a prestigious honor celebrating the nation’s top poets committed to artistic excellence, civic engagement, and social impact. Through the powerful medium of poetry, Loudoun Community Press seeks to provide a platform for our young poets to share their unique perspectives, experiences, and insights, addressing the pressing issues of our time.

“The Youth Poet Laureate program is important because it celebrates young poets who utilize their powerful voices to impact social change,” states Urban Word executive Director, Michael Cirelli. Loudoun Community Press encourages all young poets in Loudoun County to participate in this exciting opportunity. It’s a place to share your perspective on social justice in the community and inspire change throughout.

Loudoun Community Press, founded in 2020, is a non-profit educational and arts organization that provides publishing opportunities for adolescents and teens who reside in Loudoun County.

Learn more at  https://loudouncommunitypress.org/

More About Urban Word
Urban Word is an award-winning youth literary arts and youth development organization that collaborates with local youth literary arts organizations across the country to provide uncensored platforms for youth voice. It is championed by the leading national literary organizations, including the President’s Committee on the Arts & Humanities, the Academy of American Poets, Poetry Society of America, PEN Center USA, Cave Canem, and the Library of Congress.

Jessica Monte, Director

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