30 Years of Voices: InsideOut Literary Arts Begins a New Chapter in Detroit

InsideOut Literary Arts, Detroit's premier youth writing program, is marking its 30th anniversary with a series of vibrant celebrations.

Since 1995, InsideOut has been a beacon for young voices, nurturing creativity and self-expression among Detroit students. Over the years, the organization has engaged over 80,000 youth, transforming classrooms into spaces where words come alive.

To commemorate this milestone, InsideOut is hosting a 30th Birthday Party on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Norwood, located at 6531 Woodward Avenue. The event promises an evening filled with live poetry performances, interactive poetry games, letterpress printing, and more. Attendees can look forward to appearances by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and InsideOut alum Michael R. Jackson, as well as performances by current student poets. The night will also honor Senior Writer Peter Markus for his 30 years of dedicated teaching with InsideOut. Guests are encouraged to don 1995-inspired outfits, paying homage to the year of InsideOut's founding. Tickets are available at various price points to ensure inclusivity, with all proceeds supporting the organization's future endeavors.

Earlier this year, InsideOut unveiled a striking mural on the side of Yoshi Hibachi Grille on Livernois Avenue, along Detroit's historic Avenue of Fashion. Created by artist Oshun Williams, the mural draws inspiration from a poem by 17-year-old InsideOut student Charisma Holly titled "If I Wake Up in Detroit 25 Years in The Future." The artwork stands as a testament to the enduring power of youth voices and the city's rich cultural tapestry.

In April, the organization launched a unique billboard campaign, replacing traditional advertisements with original poetry from local students. Thirty billboards across Detroit showcased the creative expressions of young writers, transforming public spaces into platforms for art and reflection.

As InsideOut Literary Arts celebrates this significant milestone, it continues to champion the voices of Detroit's youth, fostering a community where every young person is empowered to share their story.