"Speak the Dream: MLK Day Poetry Slam"| Anacostia | hosted by Black Chakra
Schedule
Sat Jan 17 2026 at 08:00 pm to 10:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Busboys and Poets | Washington, DC
About this Event
Speak the Dream: MLK Day Social Justice Poetry Slam
Join us at Busboys and Poets for Speak the Dream, a transformative evening of spoken word honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through the power of poetry, we’ll amplify voices that speak truth to justice, equality, and the fight for a better world.
This special MLK Day Poetry Slam brings together amateur and professional poets to share their stories and perspectives in a competitive and inspiring showcase. The audience will decide who takes home the $100 cash prize, but every voice on this stage is a winner in the fight for social change.
$100 CASH PRIZE – Winner takes all!
Full food and bar service available throughout the event.
Tickets
- $5.00 + Tax and fees (online)
- $8.00 (tax and fees included) at the door
Wristbands can be purchased online starting at midnight or in the restaurant beginning at 10:00 AM. No refunds, and a limit of 4 tickets per person. Guests must have their wristbands on upon entering the event.
The Rules:
- Arrival: Slammers must arrive 30 minutes before the show. The order of performance will be determined by a random draw.
- Original Work: Each poem must be the poet’s original construction.
- Time Limit: Each poet gets 3 minutes (plus a 10-second grace period) to read one poem. Points will be deducted for exceeding the time limit.
- Engagement Start: A poet’s time begins as soon as they say anything on stage or engage the audience in any way.
- No Props or Costumes: Poets may NOT use props, costumes, or musical instruments. This includes the removal of clothing.
- Solo Performances: Each poem must be performed by one person only.
- Use of Devices: Poets may read from paper or electronic devices (laptops, cell phones) as long as they are not used as props.
- Eliminations: Six competitors will be eliminated after the first round.
Strongly Encouraged Themes:
- Peace
- Truth
- Justice
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
- The Civil Rights Movement
- Black History
- Black Future
HOSTED BY: BLACK CHAKRA
Black Chakra is a revolutionary spoken word artist, hip-hop performer, and author whose voice resonates with the call for justice and change. As a National Poetry Slam Champion and fierce advocate for youth empowerment, Black Chakra’s performances embody resilience, resistance, and the enduring spirit of social activism.
Come be part of an evening where art meets action and poetry inspires progress. Together, let’s honor Dr. King’s dream and keep the movement alive through the power of words.
Where is it happening?
Busboys and Poets, 2004 Martin Luther King Junior Avenue Southeast, Washington, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 7.56
