NEWS

July has been one of the most exciting and transformative months in Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative's history. From celebrating the artistic achievements of incarcerated youth to returning to one of our favorite community stages, this month reminded us that art has the power to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and create lasting opportunities for young people throughout Chicago. Spotlight Event Annual Arts Showcase at the Cook County JTDC featuring Jamila

On July 23, 2026, Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative returned to The Anchor at Marquette Park for our annual Summer Open Stage Series. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the park, the evening was filled with music, poetry, storytelling, laughter, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable collaborations. From the first performer to the final feature, the energy never stopped, reminding us why Open Stage continues to be a space where artists and community can come together

On July 15, 2026, Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative proudly hosted our annual Open Stage Showcase at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, a celebration of the creativity, resilience, and artistic growth of the young people participating in our programs. This year's featured artist was acclaimed Chicago poet and Grammy-nominated musician Jamila Woods, who joined us with her incredible band for an unforgettable afternoon of music, storytelling, and commu

Community. Creativity. Resilience. As summer officially began, June became one of the busiest and most rewarding months in Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative's history. From community festivals and youth workshops to professional production work and continued programming inside Illinois juvenile facilities, our artists, educators, and partners continued proving that creative expression has the power to transform lives. While we celebrated incredible accomplishments thr

Finding the Light Through Poetry "What would happen if young people had the opportunity to explore the light around them, the light from where they come from, and the light within themselves?" That question became the foundation of Paint the Light, a six-week poetry residency led by teaching artist and poet Johnetta “Awthentik” Anderson at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC) through Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative (SGLAI). Through poetry, conv

At Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative (SGLAI), we often talk about the power of creativity to transform experiences into something meaningful. Few stories embody that mission more than Autumn D., a young artist whose determination, vulnerability, and commitment to her craft have left a lasting mark on our program. Over the past year, Autumn worked tirelessly to complete her debut album, Pretty Pain, a deeply personal collection of songs exploring grief, trust, relation