Poetry has always been a force for change, giving voice to the voiceless, shedding light on hidden truths, and inspiring people to envision a better future. Two award-winning activist poets using their talents to spark conversations and drive social progress are Jillian Hanesworth and Gabriel Ramirez. Both artists bring unique perspectives to their work, using their words to advocate for justice, healing, and community.
Jillian Hanesworth: Poetry for Justice and Change
Jillian Hanesworth is an EMMY-nominated spoken word artist and the Poet Laureate Emeritus of Buffalo, New York. Born and raised on Buffalo’s east side, Jillian uses her art to uplift her community, challenge injustices, and imagine a future where all people can thrive. With a deep commitment to her hometown, Jillian merges her creative talents with her activism, proving that award-winning activist poets can be powerful tools for social transformation.
Jillian travels across the country, performing and speaking on topics like art for activism, the power of storytelling, and the need for honest social and political dialogue. She challenges audiences to rethink their perceptions and consider the role they can play in creating a more just society. Beyond her performances, she leads “Buffalo Books,” a program aimed at increasing access to culturally relevant literature for residents of Buffalo’s east side. This initiative promotes literacy and empowers Black and brown communities through the joy of reading.
Gabriel Ramirez: A Voice for Healing and Social Change
Gabriel Ramirez is a Queer Afro-Latinx poet, activist, and teaching artist whose work ignites conversations about healing, identity, and social justice. As one of today’s most dynamic award-winning activist poets, Gabriel has received fellowships from prestigious organizations like The Watering Hole, Palm Beach Poetry Festival, CantoMundo, and Callaloo. He was recently selected as CantoMundo’s 2024-25 Poetry Coalition (“PoCo”) Fellow, recognizing his exceptional contributions to contemporary poetry.
Gabriel’s poetry explores themes such as mental health, self-love, Afro-Latinidad, masculinity, and the African Diaspora. His performances have graced stages like the New Amsterdam Theatre on Broadway, the United Nations, Lincoln Center, and the Apollo Theatre, leaving audiences inspired and moved. His work has been featured in major publications, including Huffington Post, VIBE Magazine, Blavity, and Upworthy, and in anthologies like “The Breakbeat Poets Vol. 4: LatiNEXT.”
Known for his electrifying presence, Gabriel is available for college and corporate events, where he uses his poetry to challenge, inspire, and connect audiences, fostering deep reflection and meaningful conversations.
Two Poets, One Purpose: Using Poetry to Transform Society
Jillian Hanesworth and Gabriel Ramirez are more than just poets—they are award-winning activist poets using their voices for change in a world that needs it. Both artists understand that poetry is an essential tool for activism, capable of opening hearts, challenging minds, and driving social movements. Through their art, they offer perspectives that are often overlooked or marginalized, giving life to stories that might otherwise go untold.
Jillian and Gabriel’s work highlights the importance of visibility and representation in the arts. By centering their own experiences and those of their communities, they raise awareness of social issues and foster a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. Their poetry becomes a mirror for others to see themselves in and a window into worlds that need to be understood.
Empowering Communities Through Words
Jillian Hanesworth and Gabriel Ramirez remind us that poetry is not just about beautiful words—it’s about creating change. As award-winning activist poets, they use their platforms to elevate the voices of those who are often unheard and to challenge systems of oppression. By traveling across the country, performing, teaching, and leading initiatives, they are planting seeds of awareness and empathy wherever they go.
Their work encourages us all to engage more deeply with our communities, listen more closely to the stories around us, and find our own ways of contributing to the fight for justice. In a time when the world can feel divided and uncertain, Jillian and Gabriel offer a powerful reminder of the ways in which art can heal, connect, and inspire.
Book These Award-Winning Activist Poets for Your Next Event
Looking to inspire, engage, and create meaningful conversations at your next event? Jillian Hanesworth and Gabriel Ramirez are available for college and corporate events, offering powerful performances that blend art with advocacy. Bring these award-winning activist poets to your venue to spark dialogue, foster community, and make a lasting impact.
