Denver book festival celebrates diverse voices in literature

The Word, A Storytelling Sanctuary, is hosting its annual Literary Conference and Book Festival on September 21 and 22, 2024, in the Santa Fe Arts District of Denver. This event aims to celebrate diverse voices from BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, disabled, and neurodiverse communities, creating a safe space for storytelling and community building among Colorado's literary community. Viniyanka Prasad, Co-Executive Director and Founder, emphasizes the importance of opening pathways for a wide range of voices to enrich the literary landscape. The conference will feature a variety of programming, including writing craft workshops, discussions on the business of publishing, and community-building activities. Notably, it will also include a film component, a fashion show, and open mic opportunities, making it a multifaceted celebration of creativity. Local writers will join National Book Award and Pulitzer Award finalists, showcasing the talent present in the region. The event is designed to foster connections among participants and promote storytelling as a means of collective abundance. Chris Aguilar-Garcia, Programs Director, highlights the three tracks of programming that cater to different aspects of the literary experience, ensuring that attendees can engage with the content that resonates most with them. By providing a platform for underrepresented voices, The Word aims to contribute to a richer and more inclusive literary community. The entire event is free and open to the public, encouraging widespread participation and engagement from the community.