A Kansas University institute focused on black poetry is planning public events that will examine the relationship between poetry and culture, both locally and broadly.

The events are part of the three-week institute “Don’t Deny My Voice: Reading and Teaching African American Poetry,” which begins today and runs through Aug. 3. The following are free and open to the public:

• “Poetry Collections/Archives and the Role of the Community, Educators, Research and Recovery Efforts,” 3:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Spencer Museum of Art, 1301 Mississippi St. The event is an opening reception for the institute and accompanying gallery exhibit, “Voicing America.”

• “Summer Scholar Open Mic Night,” 5 p.m. July 21 and July 28, Genovese restaurant, 941 Massachusetts St.

• “Poetry and its Publics,” 3 p.m. July 30, Hall Center for the Humanities, 900 Sunnyside Ave.

Events will feature discussions and performances by KU faculty, guest scholars and poets. Find details about the institute and faculty online at dontdeny.dept.ku.edu.