From 26 to 29 March, the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) held its annual Conference & Bookfair in the city of Los Angeles. This significant gathering, which reinforced the city’s enduring spirit following recent wildfires, brought together thousands of writers, educators, students, editors, and publishers for four days of discussions, workshops, and exhibitions.
The conference featured a wide array of events, including the keynote speech delivered by acclaimed author and cultural critic Roxane Gay. Her exploration of modern feminism and social criticism set an inspiring tone for the conference. With 375 in-person events, over 50 hours of virtual programming, and more than 500 exhibitors, AWP25 offered visitors unique opportunities to connect with the literary community.
This year’s edition held special significance as Los Angeles continued to recover from the devastating fires that spread over the region earlier this year. In the wake of the devastating damages, the state’s tourism agency Visit California called for support from tourists around the world to help communities there rebuild. “We are all still processing the devastation wrought by the Los Angeles wildfires and the impact they had on the people and communities of LA, and those that love them,” Visit California President & CEO Caroline Beteta said in a statement.
“We are truly moved by the outpouring of support seen throughout this tragedy,” the tourism agency said. “From Angelenos volunteering their time and local restaurants opening their doors with free meals to the state’s tourism industry organizing donations and hotel discounts for evacuees. When the going gets tough, Californians rally together. Now we’re counting on you.”
In that context, AWP incorporated several initiatives aimed at supporting recovery efforts. On 26 March, the AWP Awards Reception & Benefit for LA Fire Recovery was hosted by author and actress Amber Tamblyn. The reception supported ‘Arts for LA’, a nonprofit advocacy organisation dedicated to promoting equitable and vibrant communities through the arts. Attendees had the opportunity to contribute directly to wildfire relief efforts, demonstrating the literary community’s commitment to helping those affected.
“We’ve brought our literary community together to celebrate and support the city amidst these challenging times,” said Interim Executive Director Michelle Aielli. “With a dynamic lineup of programming and featured events, we offered a meaningful and memorable experience for all attendees.”
The Bookfair, a central component of the conference, showcased hundreds of exhibitors, including independent presses, literary journals, and creative writing programmes. This marketplace not only provided a platform for literary organisations but also stimulated local businesses and tourism, as attendees explored the diverse cultural offerings of Los Angeles.
AWP’s mission is to amplify the voices of writers and the institutions that support them, while championing diversity and excellence in creative writing. The annual conference is the largest literary event in the US, welcoming approximately 10,000 attendees. Hosting the AWP Conference in Los Angeles during this period underscored the vital role of the arts in healing and rebuilding communities. The influx of visitors provided a boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants, contributing to the revitalisation of the local economy.
