In partnership with The Ink Project, PEN America Piedmont Region is hosting Dear 2020, a virtual spoken word and poetry performance collection.

We need to talk about 2020. This year has caused much reflection on behalf of all of us. The COVID-19 pandemic, pervasive racial injustice, and the upcoming election have given us platforms to reflect and build powerful conversations as a society. We would like to have that conversation with you, through spoken word, poetry, or monologue starting with the phrase “Dear 2020.”

A total of 25 submissions will be accepted. Each performer will be given three minutes to perform. You do not need to be an experienced writer or performer to participate in this event—all voices and narratives are welcome. 

Register in advance for the event on Friday, October 30 at 7pm ET. Registration is required to attend or to perform a piece in the event. Please send all submissions to theinkprojectnc@gmail.com by October 19.