Chicago Launches Fellowship to Amplify Underrepresented Voices Through Writing
CHICAGO (AP) — A new writing fellowship program in Chicago aims to empower diverse storytellers and foster creative confidence within the city’s multicultural neighborhoods. The “Write Where You Are” fellowship, launched by the Stories Matter Foundation in partnership with StoryStudio Chicago and the Lookingglass Theatre Company, will offer fully-funded mentorship and educational opportunities to 12 emerging writers beginning in early March.
The program, valued at $2,750 per participant, is designed to uplift voices often excluded from mainstream narratives, specifically those who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), Asian, Latinx, Arab, and Native American (ALAANA), and/or LGBTQ+. According to a 2023 report by the National Endowment for the Arts, writers from underrepresented groups continue to face systemic barriers to access and recognition in the publishing industry. This fellowship seeks to address that disparity locally.
“This new fellowship program gives those who may not think of themselves as writers but who have important stories to get out into the world the opportunity to learn in community, gain skills and creative confidence, and know they are ready to make a positive impact by using their voice,” said Jill Pollack, founder and board chair of StoryStudio Chicago and Stories Matter Foundation. “We are committed to doing what we can to combat racism and stand alongside those who are fighting for social justice for themselves and their communities.”
The curriculum will encompass creative writing, poetry, nonfiction storytelling, and improvisation, led by Dionna Griffin-Irons, former director of talent and inclusion at The Second City, alongside authors and educators from StoryStudio Chicago and members of the Lookingglass Ensemble, including J. Nicole Brooks and Anthony Irons. Griffin-Irons emphasized the transformative power of storytelling.
“As a performer and instructor, I’ve always been interested in deepening community voices and showing transformation on the page and the stage—it’s how we heal and build empathy,” Griffin-Irons said. “I’m delighted to join Stories Matters Foundation to support and expand its inclusion efforts, as we create opportunities for new voices and empower others to own their story and tell their truth.”
The fellowship builds upon the existing work of the Chicago Stories Project, the community programming arm of Stories Matter Foundation, which provides free classes, library partnerships, and scholarships to amplify voices from underserved communities throughout the Chicagoland area.
Applications are open until January 30th. Interested individuals can find more information and submit their applications at storystudiochicago.org/write-where-you-are-writing-fellowship.
The Stories Matter Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit, has been working to promote literacy and storytelling in underserved communities since its founding in 2018. The organization’s initiatives align with broader national efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the arts and humanities.
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