National Poetry Month 2026 — April 1 to 30
Poetry’s Diverse Voices
April is National Poetry Month, and we invite the community to celebrate the power of creative expression through a series of readings, multimedia projects, and cultural partnerships.
BHCC Library and Learning Commons
Explore the curated collection of published poets’ work celebrating a wide range of styles and languages at the BHCC Library and Learning Commons or online.
BHCC Cultural Partner Highlights
Community Memberships
Visit the link above to view our current community memberships and pass reservation policies. Use the partner links below to explore specific National Poetry Month programming.
We are pleased to highlight upcoming literary events through our cultural partnerships. We encourage our community to explore these unique opportunities for creative engagement:
Museum of African American History (MAAH)
- Living Language: A Poetry Celebration of Voice with Amanda Shea
- Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026, 4–6 p.m.
- An intergenerational event featuring guest poet Amanda Shea, a community open mic, and a “Poetry as Preservation” workshop where participants write poems inspired by museum artifacts.
Pao Arts Center
- When Poetry Sings—Voices from the Far East
- Date: Friday, May 8, 2026, 7–8:30 p.m.
- A special performance exploring Chinese poetry from composers around the world, curated by collaborative pianist Leona Cheung.
2026 BHCC National Poetry Month Series
Reverberations
Tuesday, April 14 at 6 p.m.
Library & Learning Commons Reading Room, N-310
In collaboration with the Faculty and Staff Voices Series
Join us to celebrate the launch of Associate Professor Vijaya Sundaram’s second collection of poetry, Reverberations. In this series of Faculty and Staff Voices, experience the power of the written word as we honor this latest work from one of our own English Department faculty. Reverberations is a deeply contemplative collection about being fully present in our world—from quiet reflections about home and family to exploring the realms of nature, art, and mythology. We invite you to gather with us for an evening of readings to mark the release of this vibrant new work!
Welcome: Lee Santos Silva, Professor, English Department
Remarks: Doug Holder, Publisher, Poet, and Board member of the New England Poetry Club; and Milva McDonald, Author and Friend
Presenter: Vijaya Sundaram, Associate Professor, English Department
Sponsor: English Department and the Office of College Events and Cultural Planning
The Floating Poems Project
Thursday, April 16 at 6 p.m.
A-300 Lobby and Mary L. Fifield Art Gallery
Join us for an evening of dreaming and healing. Experience the fourth incarnation of The Floating Poems Project – "The Sweetness of Being Warned" and "Instructions for the Year 2001: Remember Your Way Home."
This multimedia project is based on the poetry, collages and photographs from The Ways of Grace: Poems of Truth & Joy by Robin M. Chandler, with collaborative artists Jorge Arce on drums, and Willy Jones (BHCC Alumni) on piano. Poetry reading by the author and artist, Robin M. Chandler set to original music compositions by guest artists.
Featured Exhibition:
Medicine Joy: Spaces for Dreaming, Places for Healing
Works by Robin M. Chandler
Through April 24, 2026
An immersive experience in the oneness of humanity and the healing power of arts, featuring a tribute to Celia Cruz.
Art Gallery webpage
Hours: Monday – Friday, 12 – 4 p.m.
Contact us at kwery@bhcc.edu or dwturner@bhcc.edu.
Admission to the Art Gallery and related events are free and open to the public.