ABOUT US
ABOUT US
BPF is a Black-led, Midwest-centered poetry festival based in Columbus, Ohio. Uniting poets, curators, youth voices, and Black-owned businesses. The festival celebrates Black artistry through paid performances, platform showcases, youth programming, and panel conversations. Built on the belief that Black poets deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated.

OUR WHY
The Black Poets Fest is more than a festival, it is a movement dedicated to bridging the gap between Black poets and literary communities across the Midwest.
We believe poetry thrives through connection. By creating opportunities for collaboration, visibility, resource-sharing, and collective investment, we are helping strengthen the relationships and infrastructure that allow Black poetry communities to grow and sustain themselves.
While the festival serves as an annual gathering, the larger vision is year-round: building a connected network of Black creatives who are shaping the future of literary arts throughout the region.
WE VALUE
Collective Voice & Legacy
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Honoring the poets and platform builders who carry this work.
Centering Blackness
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Centering Black voices, Black culture, and Black leadership on purpose, unapologetically.
Poetry as Resistance
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Using poetry to tell the truth, remember, resist, and reclaim our power.
MEET THE TEAM

Jayaira Grhim-Harvey
Founder & Executive Director

Nicholas Lane
Production Director

Jasmina Jammison
Community Coordinator

Cecelia Jones
Program Coordinator
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