FAQs

An "I Am Mountain View" poem is a structured poem based on the “I Am From” poem format that explores the writer's personal history and identity. The format is inspired by "Where I'm From" by George Ella Lyon. "I Am From" poems are based on a template that prompts writers to think about details from their personal histories and identities to build their poems -- similar to a poetry "mad lib".  For this project, we have created a template that includes prompts specific to Mountain View.

If you prefer not to use the template, you can still write and share a poem.

Submissions will be shared on this site and will be displayed in the Mountain View Public Library once the project is complete.

All submitted works must adhere to the following content guidelines. works that fail to comply with these guidelines will not be accepted for submission:

• Appropriateness: Submissions must be appropriate for a public audience, containing no explicit sexual content, graphic violence, or depictions of illegal activities.
• Non-offensive Material: Works must not contain offensive material, including but not limited to hate speech, discriminatory remarks, or content that promotes intolerance or harm against any group or individual based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic.
• Originality: All submissions must be the original work of the submitting artist and not previously published, awarded in any other competition, or infringe upon the rights of any third party.
• Decency: Content should uphold a standard of decency and respect for diverse audiences. Avoid controversial or sensitive subjects unless handled in a respectful and thoughtful manner.

We reserve the right to reject any submission deemed unsuitable or inappropriate. Works containing anything that expresses harm to any individuals or groups will be automatically rejected and/or removed from the project site.

If you would prefer to submit your artwork or poem physically, you can download and print either of the templates linked on this page below, fill them out, and mail them to or drop them off at Mountain View City Hall, 500 Castro Street. Please be sure to include Attn: Human Relations Commission on the envelope.