BLACK WRITERS
FOR PEACE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

I want to shout out the Writing for Liberation Teach-In because I learned so much from the well-rounded panelists and different sessions! So thank you to everyone involved.

Not only did I leave with an extensive reading list, but I've had these questions turning around at the front of my mind for the past week or so since they were posed in one of the Teach-In sessions: what ways are you engaging with your communities as a writer? How does your writing reach a place of honesty?

Isabella S.

"Got to attend [the panel discussion, 'Lives & Works of George Schuyler, Richard Wright, Paul Robeson, Margaret Walker & Jean Toomer'] yesterday. I loved the productive and inspirational energy all three panelists brought while discussing African American poetry during the Harlem Renaissance."

Zayne A.

"I had so much fun! I walked away feeling the best I’ve ever felt. It felt like I went to church and was prayed over by trusting hands. Thank you so much @khadijahonline for curating this space and for inviting me to participate [in the Rebel's Zeitgeist reading.] This was such a healing space for me.

Nicole Y.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the inaugural Writing for Liberation virtual teach-in. Over 100 writers registered for the teach-in which featured interviews, panels, readings, and workshops centering the brilliance of over a dozen Black writers who are writing for liberation. Featured writers included: Prince Shakur, Lynnette Johnson, Tongo Eisen-Martin, Ray Winbush, Adrienne Ingrum, Kymone Freeman, Zelda Lockhart, Kim Williams-Pulfer, Alex Hardy, Femi Lewis, Tiffany Vakilian, Malik Thompson, Slangston Hughes, Lyn Artope, Colie Aziza, Derrick Weston Brown, Olu Butterfly Woods, Synnika Alek-Chizoba Lofton, Buddah Desmond, Brenda Bunting, Nicole Young-Martin, B. Sharise Moore, and Khadijah Ali-Coleman.

 

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, creatives from across the country gathered to share original work presented in tribute to the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This virtual event featured poetry and song.

Presenters included: B. Sharise Moore, Samuel Rain Benjamin, Toni Love, Khari Dawson, Quineice and Colie Aziza

Hosted by Dr. Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman

The mission of Black Writers for Peace and Social Justice, Inc. is to cultivate a community of writers, educators, and artists who utilize their craft to advance equity, peace, and justice. Through advocacy, education, and creative expression, we aim to inspire systemic change, amplify marginalized voices, and empower communities to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Black Writers for Peace and Social Justice (BWPSJ) was founded in 2024 to provide services, supports and opportunities to Black Writers and offer administrative training and services for literary organizations with the intent of creating a writing and public engagement practice founded in tenets of peace and social justice. We are the nonprofit fiscal sponsor of the following businesses and arts groups:
Liberated Muse Arts Group
BFHES, LLC
So Our Youth Aspire (SOYA)
StudentMediaOnline

 Learn more about our founder and the genesis of this organization. 
Meet our team.

Since May 2024, we have provided services, supports and opportunities to over 100 writers  through:

• A weekend mountain writing retreat for women over 40 years-old,
• A summer Youth Media Academy for high schoolers,
• Free and low-cost writing workshops in partnership with Mahogany Books, Prince George's County Memorial Library and DC Public Library systems,
• Poet's Day Party at Tanger Outlet,
• Rebel's Zeitgeist digital literary journal,
• Monthly newsletters,
• Poets in the Park summer meet-up series, and
• Readings
• Our inaugural Wellness & Vitality REFRESH event.

If you are a writer, get involved by:

• Joining our mailing list,
• Following us on Instagram and Facebook,
• Submitting to our literary journal,
• Enrolling in our writing courses,
• Participating in our meetup events,
• Signing up to showcase your work during one of our events,
• Sharing with us how the BWPSJ community has impacted your writing journey.

• Making a tax-deductible donation,
• Hosting a workshop at your venue,
• Inviting us to train your staff,
• Hiring us to develop a writing program for your organization,
• Hiring a Black writer who is a member of our community,
• Following us on Instagram and Facebook.

Escape to serenity and unleash your creativity at the "Write, Reiki, and Relaxation" weekend retreat with Dr. Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, Poet Laureate of Prince George's County, MD.  This overnight retreat promises a rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of a beautiful residence where you'll find inspiration at every turn.

Space is limited, so apply for your spot today and embark on a journey of self-discovery, inspiration, and relaxation at the "Write, Reiki, and Relaxation" weekend retreat. This weekend retreat is for women who are 40 years-old and older. 

Photos from the 2024 Write. Reiki & Relaxation Mountain Retreat in the Shenandoah Mountains in Virginia

Join us in creating a platform that not only showcases literary
excellence but also inspires and galvanizes action toward a
more just and equitable world. We look forward to reading your
work and sharing it with our global audience.

Understanding the legacy of Black people writing for peace and social justice is crucial for several reasons.

First, it provides a sense of empowerment and pride in one's heritage and contributions to social movements.

By learning about Black writers who have championed peace and social justice throughout history, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own potential to effect change and contribute positively to society.

Secondly, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community in the face of adversity. Despite facing systemic oppression and marginalization, Black writers have used their voices to challenge injustice, inspire activism, and advocate for equality.

Finally, knowing this legacy helps to counteract historical erasure and misinformation, ensuring that the contributions of Black writers to the fight for peace and social justice are recognized and celebrated. By acknowledging and honoring this legacy, we can continue to learn from the past and work towards a more equitable and just future for all.

Become familiar with our 5 Tenets of Peace & Social Justice which are foundational to our programming.