photo by: Courtesy of Marcia Epstein

The 11th annual "Words Save Lives" event that aims to create a space of fun and compassion for people affected by suicide will feature live poetry, musical and drag performances. The event starts Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Union Pacific Depot in North Lawrence.

To commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, speakers with Lawrence ties will be sharing stories, poems and other live performances as part of the 11th annual “Words Save Lives” event.

The event, at Union Pacific Depot, 402 N. Second St., will feature performances of people from Lawrence and Topeka who are sharing their experiences around the complex topic of suicide. The event is free but donations are appreciated.

Marcia Epstein, a mental health social worker and an organizer of the event, said the event is all about bringing people together who have been affected by the suicide of a loved one, people who support people who have had suicidal ideas and people who have had suicidal thoughts themselves. The aim of the event is to create a space of safety, compassion and fun even with the “hard stuff” that surrounds the conversation.

Performances include language and topics, including suicide struggles and loss, that are not intended for young children.

Doors open for the event at 6 p.m., with performances scheduled to start at 6:15 p.m.