A book of poetry focusing on race and social justice is the cornerstone of conversations Denver hopes to start among residents across the city.

The citywide program, Denver Talks, will be distributing 1,200 free copies of poet Claudia Rankine’s “Citizen: An American Lyric.” The city will also be hosting a series of events, workshops and talks around the book that will culminate with two free talks with the author, led by Mayor Michael Hancock.

“There are strong forces working to divide us,” Hancock said during a news conference to announce the series Wednesday. “We are gathered here today to say no.”

For three years, the city has been having conversations about building an inclusive, accepting community, which is especially important these days, Hancock said. This program will hopefully facilitate conversations that lead to change and new policies, he said.

“Do not only read this book and talk to someone you know but read this book and talk to someone you don’t know and don’t look like,” Hancock said.

Read the full story at The Denver Post.

Mayor Michael Hancock announces city-wide program giving away 1,200 copies of “Citizen” by Claudia Rankine during a press conference at the City and County Building Wednesday. (Danika Worthington, The Denver Post)

Mayor Michael Hancock announces city-wide program giving away 1,200 copies of “Citizen” by Claudia Rankine during a press conference at the City and County Building Wednesday. (Danika Worthington, The Denver Post)