From writing circles and community programming to a milestone anniversary, Torch Literary Arts is filling September with opportunities to read, write, and connect while continuing its mission of supporting Black women writers.
We Are Austin welcomed Torch Literary Arts founder Amanda Johnston and Brittany Heckard to share what’s ahead, including a special day honoring Johnston, the return of the Torch Writing Circle, and a 20th anniversary online auction.
Watch the full video above for the complete conversation and ways to connect with Torch.
We Are Austin welcomed Torch Literary Arts founder Amanda Johnston and Brittany Heckard to share what’s ahead, including a special day honoring Johnston, the return of the Torch Writing Circle, and a 20th anniversary online auction.
Celebrating Amanda Johnston Day
Sept. 18 holds special significance for Torch Literary Arts: it’s officially Amanda Johnston Day.
The recognition celebrates Johnston, a poet and literary leader who founded Torch Literary Arts and has spent two decades building a platform dedicated to amplifying Black women writers in Austin and beyond.
“Our amazing council member, Mayor Pro Tem José Vela for District 4, and the rest of the City Council and the City of Austin have officially proclaimed tomorrow, which is also my birthday, September 18, as Amanda Johnston Day,” said Johnston, “What I hope we will do as a community this day is, of course, read poetry and uplift other literary organizations. “It is really special, and I don’t take it for granted. Thank you, Austin. Thank you, City of Austin. It means the world.”
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers
Writing and connecting with community
On Sept. 21, the Torch Writing Circle returns, providing another opportunity for writers to come together, work on their craft, and connect with a larger creative community.
“It’s an hour of dedicated time. We have people joining from around the world. It’s amazing,” said Heckard. “It’s just time to write and be accountable with each other virtually.”
Johnston added, ”Folks right here in Austin build community online, but then we have folks from South Africa, Mexico, everywhere joining and having a good time getting some words on the page.”
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers
The organization is also celebrating 20 years of Torch Literary Arts with an online auction. Supporters can participate while helping fund the organization’s continued literary programming and mission.
“This is our first time having an auction,” said Johnston, “We are celebrating 20 years of Torch, and you can bid on great items, get them for a steal, and know every dollar is going to support Torch.”
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers
Making the Torch Center your own
The Torch Center gives the community a physical home for literary connection, offering a space that writers and visitors can use to gather, create, and engage with Torch’s work.
The organization also continues to celebrate the writers who helped shape literature and inspire new generations, including author Toni Morrison.
“She is the first Black woman, and only Black woman in the world, to ever receive the Nobel Prize for Literature,” said Johnston, “She is one of our foremothers.”
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers
Throughout its programming, Torch creates opportunities for people to discover writers, participate in workshops and writing circles, attend events, and support an organization dedicated to literary arts.
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers
For information about Amanda Johnston Day, the Torch Writing Circle, the 20th anniversary auction, the Torch Center, and additional ways to get involved, visit Torch Literary Arts online.
Torch Literary Arts celebrates 20 years of uplifting Black women writers