San Rafael, CA  | August 29, 2026, at 6:00 PM | The Marin LGBTQ Center

“Queerly Spoken.” Poets, allies, and community members join together during this event to celebrate LGBTQ poetry. The featured poets include 2026-2027 Marin Poetry Center Youth Poet Laureate Ambassadors Ezra Buell and Frances Sveinson, and Lambda Literary Award winner for lesbian poetry Shelley Wong. Karen Poppy, a poet, author, and librettist, will be presenting on the life and work of the late Joseph Zaccardi, who had served as a poet laureate of Marin County. Karen Poppy will also be sharing a poem or two from her recently released second full-length poetry collection, A Spring of Resilient Light.

“Queerly Spoken” is designed as a welcoming space where diverse voices within the LGBTQ+ community can share their stories, struggles, and triumphs through poetry. Attendees will experience a range of poetic styles and themes—each piece a unique reflection of the queer experience, intersectionality, and the ongoing fight for equality and recognition.

The event aims not only to showcase artistic talent but also to foster dialogue and solidarity among participants and the wider community. The Marin LGBTQ Center, known for its commitment to inclusivity and support, provides the perfect backdrop for this important cultural gathering. Poets are encouraged to attend and share their work during the open mic portion, whether they identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies. The evening promises a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives, enhancing understanding and appreciation of queer narratives in the arts.

Admission to “Queering Poetry” is open to the public. Join us at the Marin LGBTQ Center in San Rafael to celebrate the transformative power of poetry in the LGBTQ+ community. For more information, please contact the Marin LGBTQ Center.