— ABOUT KWELI —
Kweli means “truth” in Swahili. Under the direction of founding editor Laura Pegram since 2009, it has been our mission to nurture emerging BIPOC writers that “sing the truth.” With a quarterly online literary journal, year-long writer fellowships, multi-session workshops, writing retreats, individualized editing, an annual writers' conference and international festival, Kweli invests in the artistic and professional growth of emerging authors, nationally and internationally. We continue to contribute to a world where the narratives being told reflect the truth of our histories and the possibilities for our future.
— 2024 KWELI INTERNATIONAL LITERARY FESTIVAL —
The 2024 Kweli International Literary Festival will be held from July 13 - September 13 for writers of color. The hybrid festival will feature virtual and in-person readings and conversations with debut and award-winning BIPOC writers, master classes, craft talks, and much more, as well as the year’s best opportunity to connect with agents, editors, and fellow creatives of color during the opening weekend of the festival. As always, it’s our honor to invite longstanding beloved authors of color to speak alongside recent debuts and rising stars who are generous enough to share their honest publishing journeys with you, as well as shine light on the most urgent issues of the day through their art. We have an incredible lineup this year, including Edwidge Danticat, Kenzie Allen, DéLana R.A. Dameron, Susan Muaddi Darraj, and Crystal Wilkinson.
Join us for our #KweliLitFest24 Pre-Festival event on LESSONS FOR SURVIVAL: MOTHERING AGAINST “THE APOCALYPSE” by award-winning author, Emily Raboteau on Friday, July 12th! It is free and open to the public.
Nikky Finney, Laura Pegram and Tyehimba Jess | #KweliLitFest22
