Introduction to Our Voices: Festival of Words

Literature lovers, families, and fans of the arts — mark your calendars. The third annual Our Voices: Festival of Words returns to Fort Lauderdale from April 24–26, bringing three days of free, family-friendly events celebrating the power of words, storytelling, and community connection.

Founded by local poet and community leader Darius Daughtry, the festival is an initiative of the Art Prevails Project and has quickly become a beloved staple in South Florida’s cultural calendar. With a mission to promote literacy, uplift diverse voices, and make the arts accessible to all, Our Voices offers something for every age and interest — from author talks and poetry readings to live performances, kids’ activities, and a pop-up book fair.

“This festival is deeply personal,” says Daughtry, who grew up in the Sistrunk neighborhood. “I want it rooted in the community that raised me — a space to showcase our beauty, talent, and brilliance, and to remind people that storytelling has the power to transform.”

Festival Highlights

Lit Lounge (April 24): The weekend kicks off with an opening night of poetry, music, and spoken word featuring local and regional artists.
Book Fair (April 25): Local students receive free books and participate in art activities designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Evening with Artists (April 25): A special gathering featuring renowned poets Mahogany L. Browne and Fabienne Josaphat.
Festival of Words (April 26): A full day of family fun with author readings, children’s programming, a meditation garden, food trucks, live music, and a mini film festival showcasing the NAACP Image Award-winning animated series Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz, including an episode on baseball legend Jackie Robinson. Alabama Poet Laureate Ashley M. Jones will also take part in readings and panel discussions.

A Community Collaboration

Thanks to generous support from local institutions, including the Community Foundation of Broward, Broward Cultural Division, NSU Art Museum, and African American Research Library and Cultural Center, the festival is free to the public. The event is also backed by key community leaders, including Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman.

“The festival is a powerful example of how the arts can uplift and unite a community,” said Dr. Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Broward. “It amplifies voices, fosters literacy, and creates meaningful connections.”

“Our Voices is more than a celebration — it’s a movement,” said Phillip Dunlap, Director of the Broward County Cultural Division. “It’s about inspiring a love of literature and ensuring cultural access for everyone in Broward County.”

Event Details

Event Details:
🗓️ April 24–26, 2025
📍 Downtown Fort Lauderdale
🎟️ Free Admission | RSVP for select events: Eventbrite RSVP Link
🌐 More Info: www.ourvoicesfest.com

Conclusion

Whether you’re discovering a new author, hearing powerful poetry, or watching your child light up during storytime, Our Voices: Festival of Words promises to be a memorable experience. Come celebrate language, creativity, and the stories that connect us all.