Poetry Without Borders – Language Center

A group of audience members claps at the end of a performance

Two people interact with one another while performing a poem together. One the performers is sternly pointing at the other, while the other one looks on with a smile.

Student in a blue t-shirt and jeans stands at a podium performing a poem

The Language Center, the Humanities Center, the Center for Global and Regional Studies, the Spanish Department, the German & Russian Department, the Department of French and Francophone Studies, and the Department of Asian Languages and Literatures invite you to “Poetry Without Borders”—a beloved annual, college-wide event celebrating the beauty and diversity of languages and cultures. The 2025 Poetry Without Borders event will take place on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 at 5:30PM in the Weitz Commons. All are welcome!

View this year’s program here!

Interested in performing at this year’s event?

Do you have something to say about the world today — through poetry in a language other than English? Whether you want to read solo, perform with a group, or sing aloud, we invite you to take part in Carleton’s annual Poetry Without Borders event at on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 at 5:30PM in the Weitz Commons.

Perform in a language you’ve studied, one you speak at home, one you love, or one you wish were heard more often. Carleton students, staff, and faculty are all encouraged to perform!

All performances must be submitted by Friday, May 9th at 11:59 PM. Spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more about the submission process and submit your poem below!

Submit your poem here!