Title
Dept/ Agency: Offices of Municipal Council/City Clerk
Action: ( ) Ratifying (X) Authorizing ( ) Amending
Type of Service: Establishing the position of the City of Newark Poet Laureate
Purpose: To promote literacy and literature among City residents.
Sponsor: Council Member, LaMonica R. McIver
Additional Information:
The position of City of Newark Poet Laureate will include a suggested honorarium of $5,000.00 and a term of two (2) years.
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WHEREAS, the City of Newark’s long and rich history of individuals, who have greatly impacted upon and influenced America’s creative and artistic expressions, especially in music, art and literature is undeniable; and
WHEREAS, the City’s list of literary icons include Stephen Crane, Philip Roth, Allen Ginsberg and Amiri Baraka, to name a few; and
WHEREAS, the City of Newark’s re-emergence as literacy hub can be affirmed by its selection as the host city for the prestigious biennial Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival, the largest poetry event in North America, 16th Edition and 30th Anniversary in 2016 and the 2021 Edition; and
WHEREAS, the establishment and importance of a City Poet Laureate and programming will be a source of pride and public pleasure while promoting literacy and literature among City residents of all ages.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWARK, NEW JERSEY, THAT:
1. The Municipal Council unanimously recommends the creation of the position of the City of Newark Poet Laureate in celebration of National Poetry Month.
2. The honorary appointment will be selected by the City Poet Laureate Committee, comprised of the Mayor’s Office, representatives from the Municipal Council, the Newark Public Library, the City Arts Commission and members of the arts and literature community, with final approval by the Municipal Council.
3. The two (2) year term, duties, requirements and qualifications of the appointee will be determined by a City Poet Laureate Committee.
4. The position will include a suggested honorarium of Five Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($5,000.00).
STATEMENT
This resolution establishes the official position of the City of Newark Poet Laureate for a two (2) year term with a suggested honorarium of $5,000.00.