Community Literary Festival Honors the Power of Books, Culture, and Creativity in Broward County
Writers, poets, educators, and book lovers will gather in Fort Lauderdale for Our Voices: Festival of Words, a three-day celebration of literature, literacy, and storytelling that highlights the power of the written word to inspire communities and spark imagination.
Presented by Art Prevails Project, a Broward-based cultural arts organization dedicated to enriching the community through creative expression, the annual festival showcases a vibrant tapestry of storytelling and creates meaningful opportunities for readers and writers of all ages to connect.
Located in the scenic heart of Fort Lauderdale, the festival will feature author readings, spoken-word performances, panel discussions, youth workshops, book signings, interactive literacy activities, and more, uniting local and national voices for a dynamic cultural experience centered on books and education.
The festival was founded by Darius V. Daughtry, a writer and educator, and Founder and Executive Artistic Director of Art Prevails Project, whose work emphasizes using the arts as a catalyst for empowerment and social change.
“This festival is deeply personal to me,” said Daughtry. “Having grown up in the Sistrunk neighborhood, I understand the challenges this community faces… Art is the language of healing, and literature helps us tell the stories that bring people together.”
Through performances, readings, and hands-on programming, Our Voices: Festival of Words aims to foster a love of books, showcase diverse literary voices, and strengthen Broward County’s creative community.
Festival Highlights
April 23 – Lit Lounge: Opening Reception & Artist Showcase
The festival kicks off with a night of live entertainment, great vibes, live painting, and creative energy.
April 24 – An Evening with aja monet
Acclaimed poet aja monet takes the stage for an intimate evening of performance and conversation with Wilkine Brutus at the Bienes Gallery at Broward County Main Library.
April 25 – Our Voices: Festival of Words (Main Festival Day)
Held at the Ali Cultural Arts Center, the final day features a full lineup of literary programming, community engagement, and cultural celebration.
1:00 PM — Featured Author Conversation
Nationally acclaimed poet Richard Blanco headlines a special fireside chat with writer and journalist Carlos Frias, offering insights into storytelling, identity, and literature’s role in shaping cultural narratives.
2:00 PM — Panel Discussion: “Whose Story Is It?”
A timely and thought-provoking conversation exploring journalism, representation, and the power of diverse voices in media, featuring:
Raisa Habersham of the Miami Herald
Independent journalist Nile Fortner
Carlton Gillespie of WLRN
Moderated by Nikisha Williams of The Miami Foundation.
All-Day Festival Experiences Include:
Appearances by aja monet, Richard Blanco, and Fabienne Josaphat
Children’s Village with interactive literacy activities
Small business marketplace
Free books, food, and drinks for attendees
Book Fair Experience
Students from across the region participate in a lively day of storytelling, museum tours, and interactive art projects that inspire creativity and a lifelong love of reading.
Community Impact & Support
“Our Voices: Festival of Words demonstrates the arts’ power to connect communities and inspire creativity,” said Phillip Dunlap, Director of the Broward County Cultural Division. “By creating space for diverse voices and shared experiences, initiatives like this expand access to the arts and culture while nurturing the next generation of storytellers.”
Our Voices: Festival of Words 2026 is made possible by the generous support of sponsors and community partners committed to advancing literacy, the arts, and cultural engagement, including the David and Francie Horvitz Family Fund, The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, Broward Community Fund, Florida Power & Light, Children’s Services Council, PEN America (Miami/South Florida), South Florida PBS, and many others.
More Information
Full schedule and event details: https://www.ourvoicesfest.com/schedule
Art Prevails Project: https://www.artprevailsproject.org
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