Urban Word NYC™ (UW) exists to ensure that New York City youth have a safe, supportive, dynamic and challenging community in which to discover their powerful voices - through written and spoken word - and use them to express their views, strengthen self-esteem and engage them in opportunities that address the sociopolitical issues that affect them.

UW provides free and uncensored writing and performance opportunities to youth in all five boroughs of New York City. Our workshops are designed to develop critical thinking skills, leadership, and to ignite a personal commitment to growth and learning which leads to heightened in-school performance, and a greater interest in pursuing higher education.