AUSTIN, Tex., March 13, 2025 – Torch Literary Arts will open registration for the 20th Anniversary “Gathering of Flames” Conference on March 16th, celebrating two decades of providing community, opportunities, and a platform for Black women writers. The conference will convene on September 25-27, 2026, at the Austin Central Public Library and the George Washington Carver Museum in Austin, Texas.

“This celebration is a testament to 20 years of community building and letting Black women writers know that a space already exists for them, no matter where they are in their writing journey,” said executive director Amanda Johnston. “This inaugural event is the foundation for the decades to come.” 

This is the first time there will be an official gathering for the over 300 Torch Features and Fellows, donors, and supporters of Black women writers. On Friday, the conference will feature notable authors like National Book Award winner Patricia Smith; Yale Windham Campbell Prize winner Sharon Bridgforth; Hurston/Wright Foundation Legacy Award winner Rachel Eliza Griffiths; and NAACP Image Award winner, Crystal Wilkinson. On Saturday, attendees will connect during a day of readings, panels, and writing sessions. On Sunday, the conference will close with a community brunch and open mic. 

Torch was established in 2006 by the 61st Texas Poet Laureate, Amanda Johnston, who wanted to create a space for Black women writers to feel seen and supported. In 20 years, the organization has transformed into an internationally recognized organization with an unchanged mission to amplify Black women writers. 

You can find out more about the 20th Anniversary “Gathering of Flames” by visiting torchliteraryarts.org/agatheringofflames2026, and you can find out more about Torch by visiting torchliteraryarts.org/. 

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About Torch Literary Arts

Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit established with love and intention in 2006 to publish and promote creative writing by Black women. We publish contemporary writing by experienced and emerging writers alike. Torch has featured work by Toi Derricotte, Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Crystal Wilkinson, Patricia Smith, Natasha Trethewey, Elizabeth Alexander, and others. Programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, workshops, an annual retreat, and special events. 

Help Torch continue to publish and promote Black women writers by donating today.

Media Contact Information:

Brittany Heckard

Communications Associate

bheckard@torchliteraryarts.org 

(512) 641-9251