2024 Conference Theme: Writing Out Loud: Community Literacy, Censorship & The Future of Democracy
Conference Date: Friday, September 19, 2024
Location: University of North Carolina - Charlotte
Submission Deadline: Friday, May 31, 2024
About the Conference:
Hosted by the Charlotte Writing Project, this conference is aimed at exploring the intersections of school and community literacy. This year’s Writing Project conference seeks to bring together scholars, educators, community members, and practitioners to engage in critical dialogue and innovative practices to address the ongoing challenges surrounding free expression.
“Dominator culture has tried to keep us all afraid, to make us choose safety instead of risk, sameness instead of diversity. Moving through that fear, finding out what connects us, reveling in our differences; this is the process that brings us closer, that gives us a world of shared values, of meaningful community.” - bell hooks
New for 2024: At this year’s Writing Project conference, we are inviting proposals that explore the intersections of schooling and community literacy.
Culturally Sustaining Community Partnerships: We invite proposals that explore strategies for involving families, communities, and local organizations in culturally sustaining literacy initiatives. Topics may include community writing projects, author visits, book clubs, and partnerships with libraries and other local organizations. Each with a focus on celebrating diverse cultural backgrounds and fostering inclusive environments that promote social justice.
Digital Literacies: We welcome proposals that examine the role of digital technologies in literacy practices. Submissions may focus on utilizing social media, digital storytelling, blogging, and other digital platforms to promote literacy, amplify marginalized voices, and engage diverse communities.
Censorship & Banned Books: Proposals addressing censorship, intellectual freedom, and the impact of banned books on literacy and democracy are encouraged. Presentations may delve into case studies, historical perspectives, advocacy efforts, and strategies for addressing censorship challenges in educational and community settings. Additionally, we invite local authors of K-12 texts to discuss how free expression has influenced their writing process.
High Impact Strategies: Presentations in this category may focus on innovative approaches and practical writing tools that empower educators to navigate censorship challenges effectively while promoting intellectual freedom and fostering inclusive learning environments.
“[O]ne of the most vital ways we sustain ourselves is by building communities of resistance, places where we know we are not alone.” - bell hooks
If you have any questions about the call for proposals or the conference, please reach out to the Writing Project Team at unccwritingproject@uncc.edu.
Dr. Heather Coffey, Director of Charlotte Writing Project
Dr. Lucy Arnold, Director of Educational Partnerships
Jessica Hawkins, Graduate Assistant
