What is a Poet Laureate and why is it important?
A Poet Laureate is appointed by a jurisdiction or organization to: Write poetry which celebrates, commemorates and comments on significant events and issues in the community, and to present that work to the community. Act as an ambassador of literacy in general, and poetry in particular. A Poet Laureate program has the potential to enrich the lives of the residents, promote literacy and raise the profile of the community they represent through poetry and activities such as workshops, readings and special projects. At least 24 other municipalities in Canada have recognized the value of a Poet Laureate program to their community. Tofino may take its proud place as the one of the smallest of these jurisdictions who have said we understand the value of the arts to our community and we want to whole-heartedly support them!