The National Civil Rights Museum is looking for young poets to share their creative thoughts at the museum’s first Drop the Mic Poetry Slam. The theme, ”My Freedom Is,” will be the basis for the original poetry performed during the competition to be held on Saturday, February 22, 2014, as a part of the museum’s grand reopening celebration.
Finalists will be chosen from spoken word artists in two age categories: 15-18 year olds and 19-25 year olds. The top three winners per category will compete for top prizes of $1,000, $750 and $500, an annual museum membership and branded gifts. The winners will be among the featured artists at the National Civil Rights Museum’s Community Day Kickoff event during the grand reopening celebration on Saturday, March 1.
“As we unveil our most significant renovation that integrates cutting-edge technology and interactive exhibits, we encourage young people to join us in a journey of discovery,” said Beverly Robertson, National Civil Rights Museum President. “Our exhibits portray stories in the voices of the men and women of the civil rights movement. With the Poetry Slam we will hear young poets tell us, in their own words, how the quest for freedom, justice and equality impacts their lives.”

Submissions must be original works based on each entrant’s perspective on the topic “My Freedom Is….” Each entrant must submit a video along with their online registration. Video should be no longer than two minutes and include name, email, hometown and age. Only one entry per person will be considered. All videos must be received by February 7, 2014. For more information on criteria and to become a contestant for the Drop the Mic Poetry Slam visit: poetryslam.civilrightsmuseum.org.