Inspire Create Dream Out Loud Enjoy a recap of the 2021 festival BLACK WRITERS WEEKEND WAS LIT Subscribe for Updates
In 2020 we went virtual, in 2021 we went hybrid, and now for 2022 we’re back in full SWING in Atlanta! Lit Conversations + Amazing Black Creatives
Black Writers’ Weekend 2021 had a total of five- hundred fifty-four registrants who have ensured that another generation of Black authors and book lovers connect and discover new stories to enjoy.
A highlight snapshot of our media hosts included Bobby Pen, The Media Prince, The Hawk Vision Podcast, J J.C Carrington, Brittani Krystin, Charde Redd, Blake Johnson, that was partnered with the Black Podcast Network.
This year’s festival featured classes such as Reaching More Readers With Goodreads hosted by Mimi Chan and the Creative Workshop led by Jocqueline Protho, Thinking about publishing an audiobook, here’s what you need to know! The Art of Screenwriting an Interactive Workshop presented by Tim Orange of Damn Write Originals, and Writer’s Room 101: Access the Industry Presented by Rae Benjamin of In the Cut LA.
Black Writers’ Weekend wasn’t all Masterclasses and Workshops. Black Librarians Speak Out, and the Creative Workshop | How to Find Your Voice gave writers pertinent information that can help them elevate their writing careers. Lit Crawl featured over a dozen authors in a collective book signing at three different locations in Atlanta, where readers were treated to an up-close and personal experience with authors who have written books that they love to read.
The ladies truly represented during Black Writers’ Weekend. With panels such as Girl Take Care of You and Black Girl Magic, empowering Black women to advocate for their voices and stories to be heard, featured panelists Imani Watson, Shawn Zanotti, Britni the Brand, Dove Bennett, and D’Shonda Brown.
Of course, readers were excited that we didn’t leave the men out of the discussion. His Story, unapologetically sharing stories of the Black male experience in America and the stories they create, featuring Gregory Williams, Keith L. Brown “Mr. I’m Possible”, SGT Daniel Funderbirk, and was hosted by Que Jackson.
Other events like Diversity, Inclusion, & Creative Public Relations Talk and Virtual Book Signing Experience created space for attendees to interact virtually in an engaging manner to discuss books and movies by Black creatives featuring Pastor Dwight Buckner Jr. of Lifetime’s MAFS, Dr. Ashley Little, Candace Holyfield-Parker and many more.
Black Writers’ Weekend 2021 was an immersive experience filled with encouragement, information, fun, and, most importantly, hope. We’re back at it again at Black Writers’ Weekend 2022.
A reader holds up a book she just purchased
Author Jakquan Jackson featured at Lit Crawl takes a picture with a young reader.
As the creator of Black Writers Weekend, I want to thank those who participated in our 2021 festival. I am excited to return to the city of Atlanta fully next August. Until then, keep creating and keep dreaming out loud!
Sincerely Yours, Tamika Newhouse