UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in collaboration with the Kennedy Center, presents Emi Mahmoud—Sudanese-American slam poet, humanitarian advocate, and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. Born in Khartoum, Sudan, before later moving to the United States, Emi leverages her background in global health and her experience in peace, security, and conflict resolution to advocate on behalf of people forced to flee due to war, violence, and persecution. During this moving performance, Emi will share her award-winning slam poetry, casting a spotlight on the plight of forcibly displaced Sudanese. Over the past year, renewed deadly conflict in Sudan has left millions of people enduring hardship, insecurity, and exile. Emi brings a message of hope, solidarity, and compassion for refugees everywhere. With a special introduction and conversation with award-winning journalist Ann Curry, who has reported extensively on the humanitarian situation in Sudan.

What is UNHCR?

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, protects people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. UNHCR works in 135 countries, protecting millions of people by responding with life-saving support, safeguarding fundamental human rights, and helping them build a better future.

What is UNHCR’s Hope Away from Home campaign?

Hope Away from Home is a three-year UNHCR campaign calling for urgent, global solidarity and action to help protect the right to seek safety for everyone, everywhere, without discrimination. Together, we aim to work closely with partners and supporters as well as civil society, displaced persons, and host communities to ensure everyone forced to flee can seek and enjoy asylum, without discrimination and with dignity, and be welcomed in their new communities.

For all Millennium Stage performances, a limited number of advance reservations are available on a first come, first served basis. Advance reservations do not guarantee a seat, and patrons are encouraged to arrive early.

Online advance reservations for a given performance date will open on a rolling basis, opening every Wednesday two weeks out from the date.

For live Millennium Stage performances free tickets will also be available at the Hall of States Box Office on the day of the performance, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Seating is first come, first served. Standing room is available behind the seated area as space allows.