Consider us for your year-end giving. Donate Today!

Golden Poets competition accepting submissions from writers ages 70+

Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson at the 2023 Gwendolyn Brooks Youth Poetry Awards Ceremony

IL Poet Laureate Angela Jackson at the 2023 GBYPA Ceremony ilhumanities09092023 4445

Community News
By Angela Jackson, Poet Laureate

Read Time 1 minute
February 21, 2024

This content was originally published on the State of ILlinois Poet Laureate website.
Poetry Contest for Seniors Aged 70+

While the “golden years” can be challenging for many, it can also be a time for new beginnings. A growing number of seniors are hitting their stride and finding new purpose as the years progress.

A senior herself, Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson establishes The Golden Poets Poetry Contest to acknowledge and encourage writers aged 70 and over. 

Eligibility: 

Open to all Illinois residents aged 70 and over. 

Requirements/Formatting:

  • All poems must be typed, with name, age, and page numbers on the upper right corner of each page.
  • All poems must be original and unpublished. Copyrighted text will be disqualified. Proof of age is required to win.

Selection:

  • Poems will be judged on originality and creativity.  Illinois Poet Laureate Angela Jackson will make the final selections.

Deadline: 

Please email submissions by March 31, 2024, to ilpoetlaureate.contests@gmail.com. Winners will be announced in May 2024.

Cash Prizes:

  • 1st place: $500
  • 2nd place: $250 
  • 3rd place: $100