Authentic Inclusivity: Writing the Other: (ZOOM)

Good writing draws us into the experiences of another. But what if the writing jolts the reader out of the narrative, making him or her feel othered instead? Mary Silwance, a poetry co-editor for Kansas City Voices and a member of the Kansas City Writers Group, will teach through examples. We will examine blind spots that alienate readers—with stereotypes and irrelevant references to ethnicity. We will then explore techniques to create, instead, authentic inclusivity in fiction and nonfiction writing, thereby drawing and maintaining a wider audience. Participants are welcome to bring their own writing to be workshopped accordingly. This class is part of the Written Storytelling Certification Program from Mid-Continent Public Library and Metropolitan Community College. It counts as a Writing Elective. Program registration will close 30 minutes prior to the start of the program. Participants will be emailed a Zoom access code 30 minutes before the start of the program, so please include your email in the registration. Please note: You must sign into the room prior to the start of the program. Admittance to the classroom will close five minutes after the program's start time. Space is limited.