Bloomfield College Community Invited to “We Declare”: Open Mic Event Celebrates Creative Voices Inspired by the Declaration of Independence

On April 14, Bloomfield College of Montclair State University will host “We Declare,” a poet forum serving as the culminating event of the Bloomfield 250 series and a celebration of National Poetry Month. In 2026, the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its founding. In recognition of this milestone, Bloomfield College has presented a series of programs reflecting on the nation’s past while envisioning its future.

Led by Dean Theodorea Regina Berry, the four-part Bloomfield 250 series builds upon the principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence, engaging the community in thoughtful dialogue around historical context, foundational ideals, and the evolving commitments of the American experience.

“We Declare” will open the mic to members of the Bloomfield community to share short poems, essays, and lyrics inspired by the themes of the Declaration of Independence. This event is co-sponsored by the Holley Applied Ethics Program at BCMSU and Dr. Nora McCook, Cyrus H. Holley Professor in Applied Ethics and Associate Professor of Writing. The evening’s host and MC is Bloomfield alumnus Paul LaTorre.

LaTorre is a Newark, New Jersey–based poet, professor, producer, publisher, host, facilitator, activist, and advocate. He uses poetry as a platform for mental health advocacy, survivorship, human rights, immigrant and Indigenous rights, and decolonization, while also crafting confessional works that center healing and personal reflection.

A Pushcart Prize–nominated poet, LaTorre was named the 2024 Areito Taíno Poet of the Year. His debut collection, Disappearing Boy (2020), explores identity, resilience, and transformation. He currently teaches creative writing at his alma mater, Bloomfield College, and serves as an Assistant Producer of poetry workshops at New Jersey Performing Arts Center as part of the Dodge Poetry in the Community program, where he works with youth poets in Newark.

You don’t want to miss this transformative event, so mark your calendars today! Register through the “We Declare Poets” online form.

April, 14th 4:00 pm
“We Declare”
Poet’s Forum: In Honor of National Poetry Month