Recently, Sahtu Press submitted copies of Krysada Binly Panusith Phounsiri’s 2nd collection Every Passing Minute and Bryan Thao Worra’s collection Before We Remember We Dream to the new Poets House exhibit “Books of the Pandemic.” Both had been released in 2020 in time for the 45th anniversary of the Lao Diaspora, and their inclusion of this exhibit is timely as we prepare to mark 50 years in the United States since the end of the Laotian Civil War that displaced over 500,000 of us across America and around the globe.
It would be an understatement to say the Pandemic complicated the release of these two poets’ collections, but we’re happy to report so many copies found their way to wonderful readers over the years since.
The only event of its kind, the annual Poets House Showcase is a free exhibit featuring thousands of new poetry books and poetry-related texts published in the English language over the past 18 months. For nearly 30 years, the Showcase Exhibit has displayed thousands of works by and about the poetry community, including volumes by individual authors, anthologies, chapbooks, prose and criticism, multimedia works, artists’ books, and more.
The exhibit is at their space in New York city, arranged alphabetically by publisher, making it easy to get a taste of each press’s distinctive voice and list. The 28th Showcase—the first since the pandemic and major renovations—will be on view from April 6–May 31, during regular library hours, and will be accompanied by readings throughout April and May at 10 River Terrace, in New York, NY.
At the heart of Poets House’ mission is a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, which has informed their programs and activities since they opened their doors to the public in 1986. Poets House exists to create a welcoming home for poets, poetry readers and for those who are exploring poetry; a space that encourages artistic excellence, inquiry and experimentation, and one that welcomes everyone into the joyous exploration of this art. They believe that poetry can promote a deeper conversation between individuals, communities and cultures. Poets House’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity has determined the course of their institutional life over the past thirty years; on a daily basis, they strive to make a democratic and pluralistic space for poets and the public.
If you’re in town, be sure to stop by and send us a picture of any books of Lao poetry you spot there! We love to see them!