don't you hear this hammer ring?

-- wrote Langston Hughes over a half-century ago, and the poetry festival that takes its name from that poem will take place in 2008 on 20 March through 23 March, in DC. Split This Rock Poetry Festival: Poems of Provocation & Witness is now accepting proposals for panel discussions and workshops that explore the relationship between poetry and social change. Examples include working in prisons, the historical connection between poets, poetry, and activism and social change, using poetry to activate political participation, the role of poetry in wartime, and encouraging poetry in the schools. Proposals are due by December 1, 2007.

The festival is also looking for volunteers, and is hosting an introductory party for those interested in volunteering, on 4 October. Visit the website for more information on proposals, volunteering, featured poets, and liberal amounts of other fun stuff.