As a kid raised in the city, I didn’t think nature writing was for me. The nature writing I read didn’t include people like me. They were written by and about white folks in tweed or petticoats walking along rivers whose names I couldn’t pronounce. (I’m being coy here but hopefully you get my drift.) 

I’ve since discovered that black and indigenous people of color (BIPOC) have been writing about nature for centuries, I just didn’t had access to it, and maybe you didn’t either. Thankfully, this is changing.  

My love and admiration for all things nature began in the garden oasis my mother created in our backyard in Bushwick, Brooklyn, when the neighborhood was dotted with burnt out, dilapidated buildings and garbage strewn lots. Writing about this IS nature writing. 

In this class, we will examine nature writing defined as: “nonfiction or fiction prose or poetry about the natural environment.” 

We will read nature writing by BIPOC and women, & examine how nature is used as a tool to make larger statements about society. 

We will write about our natural world, what surrounds us, how it shapes us, how we shape it.  

When: April 20th, 7-9pm EST
How much: Suggested donation $30
To register: Send an email to writingourlivesworkshop@gmail.com with “Nature Writing” in the subject line. 

Look forward to seeing you!