Baltimore spoken word artist named Maryland Poet Laureate

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A new generation of poets and artists found its voice inside the Maryland Chamber of Commerce as spoken word artist Lady Brion became the youngest poet laureate in Maryland history.  

First Lady Dawn Moore presented Lady Brion with the award on Monday, celebrating the 32-year-old as an artist with a wide impact and reach. 

"Lady Brion uses her voice to speak up for those who have gone overlooked and been left behind for too long," Moore said. "She is an ambassador for those who need hope, an advocate for those who need a fighter -- and she will be a champion for all Marylanders, no matter their background, zip code, or a personal story." 

Lady Brion's appointment represents the first time a spoken word poet has been given this distinction.

Spoken word, also known as slam poetry, often incorporates performance and audience engagement alongside verse. Lady Brion performed at the inauguration of Gov. Wes Moore in 2023. 

A 60-year age gap separates Brion from the previous Maryland Poet Laureate, Grace Cavalieri of Annapolis. At 92 years old; Cavalieri fashioned her voice after famous women throughout history. From 16th century women's rights activist Mary Wollstonecraft to Playboy supermodel Anna Nicole Smith, Cavalieri turned historical record and tabloid speculation into introspective verse.  

In her appointment, Lady Brion also paid tribute to another legendary Maryland Poet Laureate Lucille Clifton, whose Pulitzer Prize recognized work paid tribute to Black political leaders and explored Black womanhood.  

"It is my mission to build upon [Clifton's] legacy," Lady Brion said on Monday. "Using the power of words to spark dialogue while fostering greater creativity, empathy and understanding across the state of Maryland."