Bus Poems

By installing poetry that highlights mental health on public transportation, The Poetry Movement aims to build resilience and bring together community while giving greater attention to art and creative writing.

In 2024, the Poetry Movement sought 25-syllable poems about mental health in Racine, which will were installed on each of the buses and paratransit vehicles in the City of Racine's fleet in January of 2025. We are currently accepting submissions for the 2026 installation series; review the criteria and submit your poem via the form linked below.

This program -- along with a biannual performance showcase at the Corinne Reid-Owens Transit Center -- is made possible by a partnership with RYDE Racine, a division of the City of Racine's Transportation department. Bus Poems would not be possible without funding from the Osborne and Scekic Family Foundation, the Racine Arts Council's ArtSeed grant and the Wisconsin Arts Board. Additional support is provided through the National Alliance for Mental Illness-Racine County, Family Power Music LLC, the Racine Literacy Council and ArtRoot.