Presented Dec. 18 at 7 PM, the evening will feature performances from poets and playwrights as well as a forum discussion on the performance topics, moderated by Congo Square Theatre’s artistic director Samuel Roberson.

Joanie Schultz will direct performances by Victory Gardens Ensemble playwrights Marcus Gardley (The Gospel of Lovingkindness, Black Odyssey) and Tanya Saracho (El Nogalar, Mala Hierba), Nambi Kelley (Native Son), Andrew Hinderaker (Dirty, Suicide Incorporated), Kristiana Colón (Octagon, Lack on Lack), Calamity West (The Peacock, The Gacy Play), Damon Williams (Lack on Lack), Nikki Patin (Surviving the Mic), Javon Smith (Louder than a Bomb), Kevin Coval (Young Chicago Authors) and Malcolm London (Young Chicago Authors).

"In recent months the deaths of Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Oscar Grant, Tamir Rice, John Crawford, Sean Bell, Rekia Boyd, and countless others have brought to light ongoing national issues of race, discrimination and inequality," press notes state. "Droves of individuals across the country have taken to the streets participating in rallies, riots and die-ins. During this one-night-only event, members of the Chicago artistic community will address these topics through artistic expression."

"As a theater that passionately believes in civil discourse and social justice, Victory Gardens will provide a venue for Chicago playwrights, poets, actors and community members to respond to these recent events the best way they know how — through their art. We hope this gathering will allow our artists and our city to find better ways for a more equitable America," Victory Gardens artistic director Chay Yew said in a statement.

We Must Breathe will be live-streamed courtesy of Howlround.tv. Victory Gardens Theater is located at 2433 N. Lincoln Avenue. The event is free, but reservations are required. Visit http://victorygardens.org/also-playing/we-must-breathe or call (773) 871-3000 to reserve seats.