Kansas City's First Poet Laureate
ft. Melissa Ferrer Civil
In February 2024, Kansas City, MO appointed its first poet laureate, Melissa Ferrer Civil. The appointment ceremony, hosted by Mayor Lucas, was a momentous occasion filled with emotion. The community gathered in support, and the energy in the room was palpable. Tears were shed, not just by the audience, but by council members as well. I, too, felt the deep emotion of the moment. It wasn’t only Melissa’s words that moved us, but the spirit she brought with her, pouring out not just her poetry but her very soul. Civil doesn’t simply read her poems, she invites you to live them alongside her.
During her appointment, she read two powerful poems—one dedicated to the land beneath our feet and the other titled Mounting Meditations on the Shoulder of Giants. Each piece resonated deeply with the audience, speaking to the heart of the community.
So, what exactly is a poet laureate, and what does the role entail? Through a conversation with Civil, we learn that a poet laureate is an officially recognized poet appointed by a government or institution, in this case, City Hall. The poet laureate is tasked with composing poems for special events and public ceremonies. The position also involves promoting poetry and engaging with the public through readings, workshops, and various literary events. Civil’s role is not just about writing poems, it’s about helping others discover the poetry within themselves. She has attended several community events and led workshops, focusing not on the mechanics of poetry but on the deeper process of discovering one’s personal expression.
She also launched a program titled A Nation in Exile, an arts and organizing event series that grapples with the profound question: “What does it take to return home?” As Civil notes, “We are a nation of exiles, in exile.” The program dives into topics like mental illness, relationships, community, civic health, and material well-being, aiming to foster a sense of home and belonging, both physically and spiritually. Beginning in 2025 Civil will also start to host, Melanated Measures, a bi-monthly visiting writers' series, will bring black and brown writers to Kansas City in partnership with local social justice organizations and community-building efforts. This initiative will take place at the Black and Brown Bookstore and is designed to offer solace and inspiration to the community.
Connect with Civil: https://melissaferrerand.com/
To watch full interview:
To buy her chapbook: https://turnsoleditions.com/store/birthing-pains/
To watch her appointment: