One of Atlanta Black Pride Weekend’s favorite traditions returns for its 20th year. The Poetry Slam and R&B Brunch will be held on Sunday, Sept. 6, at the Starling Midtown. 

This year’s brunch will be hosted by three-time Grammy-nominated spoken word artist Queen Sheba, and 10 poets will have the opportunity to compete for the $1,000 prize. 

“At its core, the anniversary is about much more than competition,” Sheba said in a press release. “For two decades, the brunch has stood on a simple belief: our stories deserve a stage. Spoken word can make a room laugh. It can make people uncomfortable. It can tell the truth. It can create understanding between strangers. And during Pride, it can remind us that despite all the ways the world attempts to divide us, love unites all.” 

Related story: Atlanta Black Pride Weekend returns Sept. 2-7 

Registration for the poetry competition is first come, first served. Participating poets must have three poems to perform. For poet registration, text (404) 697-9734. The event will also feature a performance by Yoshihanna, fresh off “The Voice,” and R&B by DJ PK Clasik. 

The Poetry Slam and R&B Brunch is Sept. 6 from noon to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite for $65.87.

Katie Burkholder is a staff writer for Georgia Voice and Rough Draft Atlanta. She previously served as editor of Georgia Voice.