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, conversation, and...

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, relationships,...

June 21, 2026 | Haibayo Café (Originally Scheduled for Buttercup Park) On June 21, 2026, Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative proudly partnered with Make Music Chicago for a full day of music and community. Our original plan was to host Open Stage outdoors at Buttercup Park as part of the city's international celebration of music. Unfortunately, Chicago had other plans. With heavy rain moving into the area, we made the difficult decision to move the event indoors. Thankfully, our...