A virtual anti-racism writing course exploring the distances within ourselves and the differences between us.
"Revolutionary change is never merely the oppressive situations which we seek to escape, but that piece the oppressor which is planted deep within each of us." – Audre Lorde
This course aims to be a brave and reflective space that digs into the distances within and between us – that is, the differences that white supremacy has created.
Over the course of four sessions, we’ll examine the complexities of our identities through writing prompts, storytelling exercises, and critical but caring conversations. We’ve designed this workshop to be an intimate space where we can turn inwards to decolonize our minds, while also working towards actively disrupting systems of oppression that have been, as Audre Lorde writes, "planted deep within each of us".
No writing experience necessary. Only an open heart and an open mind with a readiness to give and receive vulnerability.
Our writing and sharing prompts will spark your critical consciousness while also giving you the time and space to share your story in a supportive environment. In our final session, we’ll celebrate the work we’ve done together with a reading of our favorite stories, sharing what we've learned with each other, and plotting out our next steps forward.
All you need is a steady Internet connection to join us online, some paper, and a pen.
Cost: $200
SYLLABUS AT A GLANCE
There are four sessions included in this course with meetings once a week for two hours.
Session 1 (Thursday 2/8, 8–10 PM ET): Creating Connections
Session 2 (Thursday 2/15, 8–10 PM ET): Distances Within Us
Session 3 (Tuesday 2/22, 7–9 PM ET): Distances Between Us
Session 4 (Tuesday 2/29, 7–9 PM ET): Forging Solidarities
We are only accepting 8 participants for this program because we believe greatly in the power of connection and intimacy during these writing workshops. We want to make sure to leave lots of time for writing, connection, and listening! Please register as early as you can so you won’t miss out.
About Your Facilitator: Justine Abigail Yu
Justine Abigail Yu is the founder of Living Hyphen. She is an award-winning workshop facilitator whose work with Living Hyphen has been featured on international, national, and local media outlets including the Globe & Mail, NextShark, CTV National News, and CBC. She was named a “Changemaker” by the Toronto Star in October 2021.
Justine Abigail is a fierce advocate for diversity and representation in Canada’s arts and literature scene. Her mission is to stir the conscience and spur social change.
Follow her work at justineabigail.com or across socials at @justineabigail.
Location
This is a virtual writing experience. Video conferencing details will be sent after registration.
ABOUT FINANCIAL ACCESSIBILITY
At Living Hyphen, we strive to make all our initiatives financially sustainable while also maintaining artistic independence and ensuring accessibility for our community. Our creative workshops will always have a few subsidized pricing options for those experiencing financial hardship.
Please use the code LETSWRITE! at registration to access our subsidized pricing. If you have any questions, please get in touch at hello@livinghyphen.ca.