Redmond Appoints Ching-In Chen as New Poet Laureate

The City of Redmond has appointed Ching-In Chen as its new poet laureate for the 2024-25 term, a decision made by the City Council following a thorough selection process. Chen was chosen from an open call that involved a panel of poets and Arts and Culture commissioners, as well as individual interviews with city officials. As a poet and educator, Chen's previous works include "The Heart's Traffic" and "recombinant," and they currently serve as an assistant professor at the University of Washington - Bothell. Mayor Angela Birney noted the power of poetry to evoke emotions and connect people, expressing excitement about Chen's role in the community. The Redmond Poet Laureate Program, established in 2008, aims to promote literacy and a deeper understanding of poetry through various community engagement opportunities.

Initiatives under this program include poetry talks, readings, and workshops, alongside public displays of poetry. Previous laureates' works have also been featured in temporary art installations and at city events. The appointment signifies a commitment to enhancing cultural offerings and community connection through the literary arts.