Poetry & the Creative Mind is presented by the Academy of American Poets, the nation’s leading organization championing poets and poetry. This special event, which features actors, artists, and leaders from across culture, celebrates poetry’s important place in our society and its impact on the lives of readers.

Hosted by Richard Blanco & Terrance Hayes

presenting the 2022 Leadership Award to

Joy Harjo

with readings from

David Banks

Ishmael Beah

Rosanne Cash

Willem Dafoe

Claire Danes

Ann Dowd

Jack Gilpin

Gregory Gourdet

Bill T. Jones

Debra Monk

Dr. Saad Omer

Shahzia Sikander

Sharon Van Etten

Join us for our live broadcast Apr 28, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. EDT, free to all attendees.

Attending live

Limited virtual attendance is available through our broadcast partner Crowdcast, with additional access via YouTube available to all. Your registration through Eventbrite includes access to one of these streams, depending on availability and your preference.

The Academy of American Poets strives to host inclusive, accessible events. Captioning will be available for viewers of the YouTube livestream. If you have any questions or requests related to access, please email gala@poets.org or call (888)790-0721.