Ukiah poet Bill Churchill will be reading his poetry at the Willits Community Theatre on Saturday June 20. The reading starts at 7 p.m.

Churchill is a multi-cultural and multi-lingual poet who writes equally well in English and in Spanish. He describes himself as an “activist, single dad and grandfather, instructor in Spanish and French at Santa Rosa, Mendocino and Woodland community colleges.” He has been a California Poet in the Schools since 1998 and is a Poet Laureate Emeritus of Ukiah.

“More than awards and publications, it is an honor to be invited to read and to be acknowledged by fellow artists. However, the greatest honor as an artist is to be censored for addressing hypocrisy, racism and sexism.” This has happened to Churchill several times. “Thank you to the states of Arizona, Texas and Florida,” Churchill adds.

In addition to the featured reading by Bill Churchill, there will be an open reading during the event. In accordance with the poet’s wishes, the open reading will happen in the middle of the featured reading. “It’s more equal that way,” Churchill said.

Entry to this, the 22nd Starlight Lounge Poetry Reading at Willits Community Theatre, is by donation. However, in keeping with the tradition established long ago by the Car Lords Poetry Series of Willits, no one will be turned away for lack of funds.