Poets Dinner honoring Joy Harjo raises money for literary arts outreach

Two Tulsa artists, United States Poet Laureate Joy Harjo and Executive Chef of the Palace Café James Shrader, are collaborating for the 2021 Poets Dinner benefiting the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa on Sept. 2 at 6 p.m. at American Solera. The fundraising event will feature a menu of five courses inspired by five poems.

Harjo was born in Tulsa and is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. She is a multi-talented author, musician and mentor. She has written nine books of poetry and created several plays, children’s books and jazz albums. She became the first Native American to serve as U.S. Poet Laurate after assuming the office in 2019.

Shrader is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and is known for his creativity with local and seasonal products as well as his West Coast influences.

“You won’t want to miss this opportunity to taste poetry,” said Lindsey Smith, director of the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa. “Both of these artists have made such an impact as mentors and innovators, and serve as fantastic examples of the creativity that our program seeks to foster in our community. I can’t wait to experience these two art forms come together for a good cause.”

Participation in the Poets Dinner supports literary arts outreach programs at the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa, including writing programs in local schools, community writing workshops and craft talks with award-winning authors.

Seating is limited. COVID protection protocols will be in place. Those interested in attending can purchase tickets online on the OSU Foundation website. Tickets start at $125, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Learn more about the mission, vision and initiatives of the Center for Poets and Writers at OSU-Tulsa on their website.