Danez Smith is a prolific writer whose work focuses on their experiences of racism as a nonbinary Black person in America. Born in St. Paul, Minn., they address the rural American experience as well.

They have published four books, one of which was short-listed for the National Book Award – Don't Call Us Dead (2017).  In 2014, they were the festival director for the Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Slam. Former co-host of the Webby-nominated, Poetry Foundation podcast VS (Versus), they are the recipient of many fellowships and winner of a Pushcart Prize.
 

[Photo credit: Hieu Minh Nguyen, Poetry Foundation]