Words In Motion is a literacy program that promotes an appreciation for the art of poetry. It is open to everyone living in the Wood Buffalo region. Whether you are a student, a professional writer, or a novice wordsmith, you are encouraged to participate with your original poetry.
An external panel of judges will select the poems to be published in the 2026 Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. Authors of the selected poems will be invited to participate in a celebration event. Poems must be submitted by February 20. An early-bird draw will be held for poems received by January 1.
Judging will be done in three categories:
- 12 and under
- 13-17
- 18+
Guidelines:
- Previously published poems will not be accepted.
- Poems can be of any theme or form, and can be written in any language. If you are submitting a poem in a language other than English, you must also submit an English translation of the poem.
- Poem selection will be based on originality, appropriateness, poetic techniques, organization & flow, emotion, image & imagination.
- Maximum of 3 entries per person. Each entry must be its own PDF.
- Poems using any form of AI will not be accepted
- Submissions not following the guidelines will not be accepted
- Submissions must be uploaded as the title of the poem and the writer's full name. ie. Ghost_Jessica_Smith
Words in Motion Poetry Submission
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The personal information collected through this form will be used to notify you if your submission will be included in the Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. If your poem is selected, your name will be included alongside your poem in the Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. This collection is authorized by the Protection of Privacy Act Section 4(c). For questions about the collection of personal information contact 780-743-7800.