Our First Queer Poetry Night of the Year
On Tuesday, January 27th, Unwanted Words invites you to our first Queer Poetry Night of the year at Pakhuis de Zwijger in Amsterdam. We open 2026 with a theme that feels both urgent and grounding: INDIVISIBLE.
In a time when we are often asked to fragment ourselves, to choose sides, or to shrink parts of who we are, this edition is an invitation to return to wholeness. To the parts of us that cannot be separated. Our bodies and histories. Our contradictions. Our chosen families and shared futures.
Queer Poetry Night is a space where words become a meeting point. Where differences coexist, stories intertwine, and community is not just imagined but actively practiced.
Hosted and produced by Tuaca Kelly, the evening centers queer voices, care, and collective power through poetry and spoken word.
Theme: INDIVISIBLE
What does it mean to be indivisible?
We invite poems and performances that explore unity, interdependence, resistance, and belonging. Pieces about crossing or dissolving borders, holding multiple identities at once, refusing erasure, or finding strength in togetherness are especially welcome. And as always, you are free to ignore the theme and follow the truth that needs to be spoken.
How to perform
Queer Poetry Night is an open mic event, welcoming poets, spoken word artists, storytellers, and performers of all experience levels. First-time performers are warmly encouraged.
Sign-ups for the open mic open shortly before each event. Registration links will be shared via our website and social media channels. Performance spots are limited and tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend registering early if you would like to perform.
Each performer has 4 to 5 minutes on stage. Any language and literary form is welcome.
Safer space commitment
At Unwanted Words, we are committed to building safer spaces for our LGBTQIA+ community and for those still exploring their identities. Our events are guided by principles of consent, respect, and accountability.
In short:
- We respect everyone’s gender identity and pronouns.
- Discrimination, hate speech, and oppressive behavior are not tolerated.
- Personal boundaries must always be respected.
- Cultural appropriation and harmful stereotyping have no place on our stage.
- Photos or videos are only taken with consent.
Performers are expected to align with our anti-discrimination values. If your work touches on potentially triggering topics such as abuse, racism, or violence, we ask that you let us know in advance so appropriate content warnings can be shared.
You can read the full safer space and anti-discrimination policy on our website.
Practical information
Date: Tuesday, January 27th
Time: 19:00 – 21:45
Location: Pakhuis de Zwijger, Amsterdam
Theme: INDIVISIBLE
Let’s begin the year together. No splits. No silence.
Indivisible.
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