IL SR0395

Declares September 2025 as Spoken Word Month in the State of Illinois

Recognizes spoken word poetry as a vital medium for inner-city youth, marginalized communities, and Black artists to express lived experiences and cultural identity

Acknowledges Illinois initiatives like Louder Than a Bomb and P.O.E.T (People Of Extraordinary Talent) that provide mentorship and artistic development to at-risk youth in public schools

Encourages collaboration among school districts, community organizations, cultural institutions, and youth development agencies to implement spoken word mentorship programs statewide during September 2025

Urges the state to promote and support the National Spoken Word Awards and Festival held annually in Chicago, recognizing Illinois as a national epicenter for spoken word artists