NATIONAL POETRY MONTH [YEAR]
WHEREAS, the Academy of American Poets established the month of April as National Poetry Month in 1996; and
WHEREAS, National Poetry Month seeks to highlight the extraordinary legacy and ongoing achievement of American poets; introduce Americans to the pleasures and benefits of reading poetry; bring poets and poetry to the public in immediate and innovative ways; make poetry an important part of our children's education; and
WHEREAS, as National Poetry Month, under the leadership and direction of the Academy of American Poets, is now the largest literary celebration in the world; and
WHEREAS, poetry enhances and enriches the lives of all Americans; and
WHEREAS, poetry, as an essential part of the arts and humanities, affects every aspect of life in America today, including education, the economy, and community pride and development; and
WHEREAS, poetry has produced some of the nation's leading creative artists and has inspired other artists in fields such as music, theatre, film, dance, and the visual arts; and
Now, therefore, I [Mayor's Name], Mayor of [City], do hereby proclaim April 1 through April 30 as National Poetry Month. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of [City]to observe this month, to celebrate the cultural riches our community has to offer, and to recognize the important role poetry in creating and sustaining this great nation with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this [ ] day of [], in the year ____.
[Signature]
