Category: About Speak Up

  • Mission, Values, Practices, and Distinctives of Speak Up Writing Communities


    What is a Speak Up Writing Community?

    A group of people who gather in person, write together, and read their work to one another, honoring each person and respecting every voice.

    Anchoring Values

    Honor — 100% dignity to each person. Full equality doesn’t have to be earned.

    Curiosity — We are students, explorers. Childlike with our receptiveness.

    Presence — Face to face, authentic, unhurried!

    Essential Practices

    1. Writing
    2. Reading

    Distinctives of Speak Up Writing Communities

    What do the communities have in common?

    • Limited format of writing and reading
    • Shared values, practices, and mission.
    • Guardrails of Respect and Safety
    • Free — No financial barriers to attend, all supplies provided
    • Open — to the public, anyone is welcome

    Where is there variation and diversity?

    • Attendee demographics, location, themes.
    • Specific (marginalized) community that is pursued (e.g., people facing homelessness)
    • Details of food and drink.
    • Events, community, culture, and adjacent activities that flow from each workshop.

    — Matt Shaw