‘I have come to believe over and over again that what is most important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared, even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood.’
—Audre Lorde, ‘The Transformation of Silence into Language and Action’ (1977)

Middle Ground’s annual Open Mic celebrates the beauty and diversity of literary expression. Exploring the importance of orality and migration in shaping cultural identity, the night becomes a space where words come alive, emotions collide, and connections are formed. Under the theme ‘Voice, Echo, and Location,’ poets and storytellers selected via an open call share their literary creations in the spirit of speaking out, echoing Lorde’s call to give language to what matters. In collaboration with Festa Literária das Periferias, this year’s event turns its attention to the intricate web of relationships linking Brazil to the wider world, highlighting how histories of exchange and movement reverberate in contemporary voices

The evening is moderated by Alexandra Antwi-Boasiako and is complemented by a musical intervention from Pachakuti.