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
- Writing
- 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