Summer readings in the Citizens’ Garden
Take a moment to slow down and reflect with literary readings in the Citizens' Garden. Immerse yourself in European literature with authors from Sweden, Spain, Estonia and Germany.
Poetry Slam
Spotlight
30-05-2024
Poetry Slam in the Citizens‘ Garden
Brussels
Citizens' Garden
This poetry slam intends to showcase diverse voices of democracy and foster reflections on why it is important to speak up, to take part in participative democracy and stand up for it.
Poetry Slam
Brussels
Citizens' Garden
Poets for Democracy
Democracy cannot be taken for granted. Democracy is a challenging process that constantly aims to achieve an even better societal future, for more inclusion and equality. Culture plays an important role in this regard. ‘United in Diversity’ is the motto of the European Union, whereby Europe’s cultural diversity is united in the awareness of sharing a common European heritage.
Democracy is fundamentally based on the freedom of expression, especially via the arts and culture. Poetry, as a liberal literary genre, offers the opportunity to reflect on the past, present and future of European democratic values that we all share. Whilst slam poetry, is a form of poetic expression that incorporates performance and a participative audience.
Slam poets at the European Parliament “Poets for Democracy” event will address topics that show the manifold advantages of democracies. These include praising freedom of expression, tolerance, solidarity, togetherness, a common EU future, as well as flagging disruptive forces that could endanger our democratic achievements such as the misfits of social media, Artificial Intelligence or the advent of a more polarised, more self-absorbed society.
Music
Yassine Azaiez, keyboard
Abigaille Muaca Vungu, vocals
EU Poets
Silvia Pollidori, European Parliament - Italy
Ben Ray, European Commission - UK
Alison Mooney, European Parliament - Ireland
European Champions
Dani Orviz, 2012 first European Champion, Spain
Péter Molnàr, 2018 European Champion, Hungary
Lisette Ma Neza, 2017 Runner Up and audience award winner - Belgium
Marie Darah, 2021 European Champion - Belgium
Elif Duygu, 2022 Austrian Champion - Austria
Joonas Veelmaa, 2023 European Champion - Estonia
Map
Citizens' Garden
Rue Vautier / Vautierstraat 68B-1050 BrusselsBelgium
How to get there
Brussels-Luxembourg serves the European Parliament
Motor disability
