Overtown Poetry Slam Celebrates Artistic Expression

The On the B Side event provides a platform for local poets and artists this Sunday.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:11pm

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A striking abstract illustration featuring black silhouettes of various human forms overlapping against a bright red background, conveying the energy and diversity of a community poetry event.The On the B Side poetry slam uplifts creative voices and cultural heritage in Miami's Overtown neighborhood.Today in Miami

The On the B Side poetry slam is taking place this Sunday in Miami's Overtown neighborhood, offering a space for local poets, spoken word artists, and creatives to share their work with the community. The event is part of an ongoing effort to highlight the artistic talent and diverse cultural heritage of the Overtown area.

Why it matters

Overtown has a rich history as a hub for African American culture and the arts, but has also faced challenges with gentrification and economic disinvestment in recent decades. Events like the On the B Side poetry slam aim to uplift the neighborhood's creative community and provide an outlet for marginalized voices to be heard.

The details

The On the B Side poetry slam will feature open mic performances, as well as curated sets by established local poets. The event is organized by a collective of Overtown-based artists and community organizers seeking to create more opportunities for artistic expression and celebration of the neighborhood's cultural identity.

  • The poetry slam takes place this Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

On the B Side

A recurring poetry slam and open mic event organized by a collective of Overtown-based artists and community organizers.

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What they’re saying

“Overtown has always been a place where the arts and community come together. On the B Side is our way of uplifting those voices and creating more spaces for that tradition to thrive.”

— Jasmine Rodriguez, Organizer, On the B Side

What’s next

The organizers plan to continue hosting the On the B Side poetry slam on a monthly basis, providing an ongoing platform for local artists and poets.

The takeaway

Events like the On the B Side poetry slam are vital for preserving the cultural identity and creative spirit of neighborhoods like Overtown, which have historically been centers of artistic expression but face challenges of gentrification and displacement.