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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
ESTABLISHING SEPTEMBER AS SPOKEN WORD MONTH AND HONORING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BLAQ ICE
WHEREAS, Chicago’s own Blaq Ice, born De’Andre Hawthorne, is an international, award-winning spoken word poet, cultural icon, and trailblazer whose illustrious career spans more than three decades, during which he has redefined the spoken word genre by fusing poetic expression with neo-soul, jazz, hip-hop, and rhythm and blues; and
WHEREAS, Blaq Ice’s visionary artistry and dedication to elevating spoken word poetry have captivated audiences across the globe, and in 2025, he achieved an unprecedented milestone by becoming the first poet in history to win both the Chicago Music Awards and the 312 Music Awards in the same year, cementing his legacy as a transformative force in the arts; and
WHEREAS, Blaq Ice is the founder of the Chicago Poet Laureate initiative and the CEO and Founder of the National Spoken Word Awards and Festival, held annually in Chicago during the Labor Day weekend, which draws artists and audiences from across the nation and affirms Cook County as a national hub for spoken word excellence; and
WHEREAS, since 2015, Blaq Ice has been a tireless advocate for the national recognition of spoken word as a distinct and vital art form, championing the establishment of Spoken Word Month every September, and is widely regarded as the Father of Spoken Word Month in America; and
WHEREAS, through his work with People of Extraordinary Talent (P.O.E.T.), Blaq Ice has made significant contributions to community empowerment by mentoring youth in public schools, establishing transformative spoken word programs in correctional facilities, feeding the hungry, and coordinating clothing drives for individuals experiencing homelessness—demonstrating his steadfast commitment to social justice, youth empowerment, and artistic excellence; and
WHEREAS, Blaq Ice has emphasized that while April is recognized nationally as Poetry Month, it predominantly celebrates traditional literary poetry, often excluding the performance-driven, urban-rooted art of spoken word which amplifies the voices of Black, Brown, and underrepresented poets from inner-city communities; and
WHEREAS, initiatives such as Louder Than a Bomb and P.O.E.T. have utilized spoken word poetry to engage at-risk youth in schools, transforming lives through mentorship, creative expression, and community building, offering alternatives to violence and fostering healing through storytelling; and
WHEREAS, the formal designation of Spoken Word Month in September will offer Cook County a platform to honor and institutionalize the cultural, educational, and societal value of spoken word, while encouraging intergenerational participation, amplifying local talent, and inspiring civic pride;
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, BILL LOWRY, COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER OF THE 3rd DISTRICT, AND TONI PRECKWINKLE, PRESIDENT OF THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, does hereby designate the month of September as Spoken Word Month in the County of Cook;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board acknowledges and supports the annual National Spoken Word Awards and Festival, held in Chicago during the month of September, and recognizes its importance in showcasing Cook County as a national leader in the arts and cultural innovation;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board encourages the development of spoken word mentorship programs in collaboration with local schools, community centers, and youth-serving organizations, with the goal of empowering youth, preventing violence, and providing a creative platform for self-expression and personal development;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Cook County shall launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign each September to promote the month’s significance, highlight mentorship opportunities, and celebrate the artistic contributions of local spoken word artists, including the enduring legacy of Blaq Ice;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners formally honors Blaq Ice for his historic achievements, unwavering advocacy, and profound contributions to culture, education, and community advancement through the spoken word;
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to De’Andre “Blaq Ice” Hawthorne as an expression of Cook County’s deepest respect and appreciation for his role in shaping the cultural fabric of our communities and inspiring future generations through the power of poetry. Office of Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry 3rd. District.
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