Slam poetry serves as a tool for social expression and diversity

Slam poetry, which originated in Chicago during the 1980s, has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon used for social resistance and community representation. Originally designed by Marc Kelly Smith to make oral poetry more interactive and accessible to the public, the format has spread to various countries and diverse communities.

In Brazil, specifically in São José dos Pinhais, slam circles provide a platform for women and LGBTQIA+ individuals to denounce inequalities and promote social transformation. Similarly, in Australia, the practice allows diverse groups to share personal histories, such as the immigrant experience, through performance-based competition judged on literary flair and emotional impact.