RIT Presents: ASL and Slam Poetry Showcase

For many members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, ASL poetry has become a major creative outlet to express the unique perspectives of being deaf in America. Similarly, slam poetry is an increasingly prominent creative force combining traditional poetic expression with the urban style and perspective of hip-hop. This combination of visions will be featured at the first annual Def Meets Deaf Poetry Jam, hosted by the Lovin’ Cup Bistro at Park Point, Monday, Jan. 12.

The event will feature ASL poetry presentations by RIT students, faculty and alumni, including Luane Davis Haggerty, Peter Haggerty and Eddie Swayze, as well as members of Reenah Golden’s Rochester Teen Slam Team, which will soon be featured in the HBO series Brave New Voices. The performance is free and open to the public.

“This event is an opportunity to both showcase some incredibly talented individuals, while also providing a better understanding of the ASL and slam poetry movements,” notes John Roche, professor of English at RIT and coordinator of the event along with Luane Davis Haggerty and Reenah Golden.

WHAT: Def Meets Deaf Poetry Jam

WHO: RIT students, faculty and alumni and members of the Rochester Teen Slam Team

WHEN: 7- 9:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12

WHERE: Lovin’ Cup Bistro, Park Point, adjacent to RIT Campus