The Esteem Awards Present: A unique and inspiring event-the first annual Red, Pink & Purple Polka Dot Poetry Slam. This event has been moved to SATURDAY NOVEMBER 1 -- Join us at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for an uplifting afternoon hosted by Chicago's spoken word diva and entrepreneurial Storie Devereaux. This event is not just about poetry, but also about raising awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS, Breast Cancer, and Urban Violence/Domestic Violence (includes the effects of police brutality) on our community through spoken word and music.

Each poet will have a total of three minutes, plus a generous ten-second grace period, to share one poem passionately.

If the poet goes over time, points will be deducted from the score by the scorekeeper. The poem/performance will lose .5 (point 5) off of their score for each 10 seconds they go over.

Contestants must prepare at least three pieces to ensure we can break any ties that may arise. Two of your pieces must adhere to the same theme. For example, if your topic is domestic violence, your wardrobe must be either OPTION C or OPTION D. The theme plays a vital role in the competition, as it allows us to grasp your perspective and creativity. Your third piece can explore any subject you choose.

Prizes: 1st place: $1,000; 2nd place: $ 700; 3rd place: $ 400

Contestants should wear:

OPTION A: Wear the principal color RED shirt/blouse/blazer/dress with white or black dots for (HIV/AIDS). Showcase your talents by speaking to themes that cover messages of (HIV/AIDS) awareness, survival, etc.

OPTION B: Wear the principal color PINK shirt/blouse/blazer/dress with white or black dots for (Breast Cancer). Showcase your talents by speaking to themes that cover messages of (Breast Cancer) awareness, survival, etc.

OPTION C: Wear the principal color PURPLE shirt/blouse/blazer/dress with white or black dots for (Urban Violence/Domestic Violence). Showcase your talents by speaking to themes that cover messages of (Urban Violence/Domestic Violence) awareness, survival, etc.

OPTION D: Wear a light colored (white, off white, lite pink, lavender, lilac, etc.) shirt, top/blouse, suit or dress with a scarf, necktie, or bow tie with either RED, PINK, or PURPLE polka dots.

This event is sponsored by:The Chicago Center for HIV Elimination (CCHE); Black Incubator & Accelerator (BIA); COMCAST; viventhealth+TPAN

Photos of acceptable attire for contestants below: