A new organisation dedicated to fostering and advancing the literary arts in Anguilla has officially been established.
The Anguilla Writers Association (AWA) aims to create opportunities for the island’s writers, poets, playwrights, storytellers, publishers, educators and literary enthusiasts.
It seeks to encourage them to collaborate, showcase their work and promote Anguilla’s vibrant literary culture, a press release said on 17 June.
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The association was formed by a collective united by a shared passion for literature and creative expression, inspired in part by their participation in the annual St Martin Book Fair since 2022.
Recognising the need for a similar platform, the group held a series of discussions and consultations, both in person and virtually, culminating in the association’s formation.
On 1 June, the association’s founding members agreed by consensus to establish an interim executive body to oversee its affairs until formal elections within the year.
They are president Ivor Hodge, vice president Dr Ron Harrigan, treasurer Susan Hodge, secretary Jo-anne Hodge, public relations officer Rosanna Browne and members Serena Connor and Cassilda Thomas Brookes.
The interim executive’s immediate priorities include finalising and signing the association’s draft constitution and expanding the general membership.
Prospective members will be invited to review the constitution and to join the association in accordance with its terms and conditions.
Plans are also underway for literary events, workshops, public readings and the possible development of a literary festival or book fair in Anguilla.
In the press release, the interim executive thanked everyone who has supported and remained committed to the initiative since its inception, and said it looked forward to building a literary community.
Meanwhile, the association acknowledged founding members Avenella Griffith and the late Carlton Pickering Sr, whose literary legacy and contributions to the arts are appreciated and remembered.
