[cid:image001.png@01DC0B8F.260F5480][cid:image002.png@01DC0B8F.260F5480] We’re excited to announce that Mari Griffin will serve as Tacoma Poet Laureate for 2025–2027. Mari has played an integral role in Tacoma’s arts and literary scene, founding and producing the Black Night Market, Poetry After Dark, and the Black Art Soiree, platforms that celebrate artists, performers, and entrepreneurs while creating vital spaces where underrepresented voices are seen and heard. From her artist bio: “Mari G. is a soulful vocalist, affirmation poet, and multidisciplinary artist based in Tacoma, WA. Rooted in the belief that art is a powerful tool for healing, reflection, and affirmation, Mari’s work channels emotion, resilience, and truth through original poetry and songs. Her signature pieces, such as ‘Shine Ya Light’ and ‘We Gon Be Alright,’ are anthems of empowerment and hope, uplifting listeners and inviting them to connect deeply with their own journeys toward radical self-love and liberation.” From her Poet Laureate proposal: “Tacoma is the heartbeat of my work, my creativity, and my community. It’s more than just the place I call home, Tacoma is where I’ve grown as an artist, organizer, and cultural worker… I see my work as a bridge between culture and care.” From the Selection Panel: “The Soul II Soul reference really brought me back! I really enjoyed ‘I’m Home’... And I love that ‘Black Roses’ simultaneously speaks to the identities of a community of Black women as well as individuals… her singing voice is beautiful. I like that she submitted poems and a song to show some range.” Celebrate "Pass the Torch" as part of The Hot Seat event, hosted by All Bets on Us, Shade Makers, Campfire Coffee, and Real Art Tacoma. 📅 Sunday, Aug. 17 | 1–4:30 PM 📍 Real Art Tacoma @realarttacoma 🎤 A special edition of “The Hot Seat” featuring PNW musicians, poets, and songwriters, with live music by @slimdadj, giveaways, new Summer ‘25 pieces, and raffle prizes for RSVPs. This free event, sponsored by All Bets On Us, Shade Makers, Campfire Coffee, and 2023-2025 poet laureate Christian Paige, will be a space for love, community building, and great art from local creatives. Join us as we welcome Tacoma’s new Poet Laureate for 2025–2027. Hope to see you there! [Logo Description automatically generated] Daniel Garcia (He/Him/él) Community Programs Specialist Arts and Cultural Vitality Division Dgarcia2@tacoma.gov<mailto:Dgarcia2@tacoma.gov> (253) 830-6763