Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution authorizes the selection of MK Zariel to serve as the 2026-2027 Madison Youth Poet Laureate. A $500 stipend will be provided. Funding for the stipend is included in the Planning Division's 2026 Adopted Operating Budget. No additional appropriation required.
Title
Naming MK Zariel as the 2026-27 Madison Youth Poet Laureate
Body
WHEREAS, poetry promotes dialogue and understanding between generations; and
WHEREAS, poetry promotes civic responsibility, civic engagement, empathy, understanding, and mutual connection; and
WHEREAS, on December 13, 2021, the Madison Common Council passed Resolution No. 68286, RES-21-00343, establishing a Youth Poet Laureate Program; and
WHEREAS, on April 1, 2026, the Madison Arts Commission issued a call for the 2026-27 Madison Youth Poet Laureate with a deadline of April 30, 2026; and
WHEREAS, at their May 13, 2026, meeting, the Madison Arts Commission, in consultation with Madison Poet Laureate Steven Dawson, met to vet the Youth Poet Laureate applications; and
WHEREAS, after careful consideration the Madison Arts Commission recommended that MK Zariel serve as the 2026-27 Madison Youth Poet Laureate.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Madison names MK Zariel to serve as Madison's 2026-27 Youth Poet Laureate.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that MK Zariel will be invited to a celebration on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 5:30pm followed by a poem reading before the Common Council at 6:30pm.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that MK Zariel shall be known as the "Madison Youth Poet Laureate" from September 22, 2026, through August 31, 2027.