< Back Celebrate Torch’s 20th Birthday & Our Mission to Amplify Black Women Writers Aug 25, 2026 Our wish this August is to gain 20 new Community Impact Members & more! Find out how to celebrate our birthday with events, well wishes, and donations. It’s no surprise that Torch’s 20th year is here because we’ve been celebrating this significant milestone since January. However, August is a very special month. It’s Torch’s 20th birthday month! Every year, we reflect on how an organization for Black women writers started as a spark and ignited into the unavoidable flame that is Torch Literary Arts. From our day-one supporters to our newest Friday Features, we’ve been cultivating a community that proudly tells Black women that their stories are not only important, but life-changing. Black women writers are America’s archivists. We are the culture markers of the past, current, and the future. Our stories are dreams of unimaginable worlds that people are lucky to experience. This Birthday Month, we’re a living testament to a dream from 2006. Our 2007 archive magazine is award-winning and now features Black women writers from across the diaspora. Our programs now expand to include university, media, and international partnerships. We officially have a physical space in Austin, Texas: the Torch Center! In a time where Black-led and serving nonprofits face defunding, inconsistent performative support, and lack of acknowledgment, we have persisted. So, won’t you celebrate this moment with us? After all, your support is what fuels our flame . This month, we want to thank our community for their unwavering support, and ask for one birthday wish: continued support into the next 20 years. Here are a few ways you can support Torch this month: Become 1 of our 20 new Community Impact Members (CIMs) by donating just $10 monthly or $100 annually. Become a sponsor for or attend Torch’s “A Gathering of Flames” Give a one-time donation of $20 or more Attend our upcoming events: August 25th – Wildfire Reading Series featuring LaToya Watkins August 26th – 4th Annual Carrying the Torch August 29th – Celebrate Black Bookstore Day at the Torch Center August is also Black Philanthropy Month , an international giving month supporting Black-led nonprofits. Torch is proud to be a Black-led and serving organization with countless other nonprofits dedicated to uplifting our community. Between our birthday and celebrating the network of other Black-led nonprofits, there’s so much to celebrate! ### 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. About Black Philanthropy Month Dr. Jacqueline Bouvier Copeland of Pan-African Women's Philanthropy Network and The WISE Fund established the month of August as Black Philanthropy Month in 2011, with recognition by the United Nations as part of its 2011 Declaration of the International Year for People of African Descent and its 2015-2024 Declaration of the International Decade for People of African Descent. The month-long observance invites all people of African ancestry and allied brothers and sisters to take August and beyond to promote the power of giving to transform lives. Learn more here . Previous Next

Latest News Aug 25, 2026 Celebrate Torch’s 20th Birthday & Our Mission to Amplify Black Women Writers Our wish this August is to gain 20 new Community Impact Members & more! Find out how to celebrate our birthday with events, well wishes, and donations. Read More Jun 28, 2026 Thanking Our Funders for their Support for Black Women Writers In our 20th Anniversary year, seven major funders are stepping up to support Torch’s mission to amplify Black women writers. Read More Jun 1, 2026 June is a Celebratory Time for Black Women Writers This June, we’re celebrating queerness, Black Texans, Caribbean heritage, and lyricists who bring their magic and impact to the Torch community. Read More Apr 29, 2026 Torch Announces First Ever Nominations for Best New Poets Anthology Two Torch Features, Tiezst "Tie" Taylor and Mecca M. Miles, are Torch’s inaugural nominees for their outstanding poems. Read More Apr 2, 2026 Celebrating 20 Years of Highlighting Black Women in Poetry Torch is elated to celebrate National Poetry Month and the Black women poets in our community. Read More Mar 31, 2026 Torch Literary Arts Announces New Board Member Dalia Azim joins the Torch board, bringing her expertise in literary programming and partnerships in the Austin literary community. Read More Mar 12, 2026 Torch Literary Arts to Open Registration for “A Gathering of Flames: Celebrating 20 Years of Torch Literary Arts” on March 16th The inaugural gala and conference will feature Rachel Eliza Griffiths, Sharon Bridgforth, Patricia Smith, and Crystal Wilkinson from September 25-27, 2026, in Austin, Texas. Read More Mar 6, 2026 Celebrating Women and a Sustainable Future with Torch This year’s Women’s History Month Theme urges us to celebrate women who are taking charge in regard to sustainability, and this International Women’s Day urges us to give to gain. Read More Mar 3, 2026 Torch Returns to the 2026 AWP Conference in Baltimore For four days, Torch will join other writing organizations, writers, publishers, students, and more at the largest literary conference in the country. Read More Feb 27, 2026 Torch Literary Arts Welcomes New Team Member Torch adds a new position, Administrative Associate, to help with daily operations and support the needs of Torch Center. Read More Feb 5, 2026 Austin Film Society Joins Torch Literary Arts as New Community Partners The two organizations will amplify a series of film screenings showcasing Black women screenwriters, directors, and films that reflect Black culture. Read More Feb 1, 2026 Celebrating the Milestones of Community and History through Literary Greatness and Storytelling this Black History Month This year’s Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” urges us to acknowledge the historical impact of Black narratives. Read More Jan 29, 2026 Kicking Off 20 Years with the Spring 2026 Season Torch’s Spring 2026 Season builds on the history we've made in our 20 years of strengthening the literary community of Black women writers. Read More Jan 29, 2026 Important Transitions to Torch's Board of Directors This board transition includes the retirement of former board treasurer, Candace Lopez, election of new board treasurer, Dana Weekes, and the election of new board secretary, Rachel Winston. Read More Jan 28, 2026 Torch to Raise $10,000 during one of Austin’s Largest Giving Days Torch joins over 700 nonprofits during Amplify Austin to raise funds for Black women writers. Read More Jan 2, 2026 Celebrating a New Year with a Growing Community Taking the time to thank you all for your support in 2025 and share exciting news for 2026. Read More Dec 29, 2025 Ending the Year Strong with Community Impact and Growth Taking time to thank you all for your support in 2025 and share plans to end the year strong. Read More Dec 9, 2025 A Big Thank You to Our Major Funders In 2025, seven major funders supported Torch’s mission to amplify Black women writers. Read More Dec 5, 2025 Torch Raises $5,593 for 2025 GivingTuesday Campaign Joining one of the largest international giving days, Torch raised $5,593. Read More Dec 1, 2025 Torch Announces the 2025 Nominations for the Pushcart Prize Six Torch Features, Jordan E. Franklin, Joi' C Weathers, Imani Nikelle, Yolanda Kwadey, Jennifer Maritza McCauley, and Marchaé Grair are nominated for their respective works. Read More Nov 19, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Celebrates GivingTuesday with a Board Match, Supporter Toolkit, Giveaway, and More. Torch is joining millions around the world participating in the global generosity movement on December 2, 2025. Read More Nov 5, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Returns as a Partnering Organization for the 2025 Texas Book Festival Over two days, Torch will host poets Tiana Clark and Donika Kelly in Austin for a series of inspiring readings and conversations. Read More Oct 22, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Announces Transitions to 2025 Board of Directors This board transition includes the retirement of former board secretary, Stephanie Lang, and the election of new board member, Rachel Winston Read More Oct 15, 2025 Torch Announces the 2025 Nominations for the O. Henry Prize Two Torch Features, Jennifer Coley and Jessica Araújo, are nominated for their respective short fiction stories. Read More Oct 9, 2025 Celebrating the Second Annual Donor-Advised Funds Day Torch Literary Arts encourages families and individuals with donor-advised funds to consider supporting Black women writers and the programs we offer. Read More Sep 16, 2025 Torch Announces the Nominations for the Best of the Net Eleven Torch Features were nominated for their works in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and visual art in Torch Magazine. Read More Sep 2, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Announces the Torch Center Coming Fall 2025 The local Austin nonprofit organization dedicated to building community for Black women writers will now have a physical location at the LINC of Austin. Read More Aug 28, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Releases Fall 2025 Season Torch’s Fall 2025 Season includes dynamic readings, a screenwriting conversation, book festivals, workshops, and more! Read More Aug 20, 2025 Torch Announces 2026 Dates for 20th Anniversary Celebration “A Gathering of Flames” will take place in Austin, Texas, from September 25 to 27, 2026, celebrating Black women writers and 20 years of Torch’s growing community. Read More Aug 1, 2025 Celebrating Torch and Black Philanthropy Month All August Long Torch is celebrating 19 years of community and impact with CIM goals, new updates, and more! Read More Jun 5, 2025 Celebrating the Intersectionalities of Black Women Writers June is a month full of pride for queer, Caribbean, and song-filled Black women writers and the readers who love them. Read More May 28, 2025 Torch Announces New Community Impact Member Donation Initiative The Community Impact Membership (CIM) program provides Torch’s monthly donors of at least $10 and annual donors of at least $100 with exclusive items and updates. Read More Apr 24, 2025 Torch Announces the 2025 Retreat Fellows Torch returns for a third consecutive year to host eight fellows at their annual retreat for Black women writers at the Colton House in Austin, Texas, from July 20-27, 2025. Read More Apr 1, 2025 Celebrating Black Women's Contributions to Poetry All Month Long Continuing on months of celebrating Black History Month and Women’s History Month, we’re keeping the acknowledgments alive with National Poetry Month Read More Mar 27, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Awarded AWP Writing Organization Award This is the first-ever Writing Organization Award by the Association of Writers & Writing Programs, which is awarded to literary organizations based on the legacy of writing organization advocate Kurt Brown. Read More Mar 17, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Recognized at the Ireland House During SXSW with Prime Minister of Ireland Micheál Martin Torch’s “Writers Across the Diaspora” program in partnership with the Irish Consulate, Culture Ireland, and Texas State University was highlighted. Read More Mar 11, 2025 Celebrating Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day This year’s themes of moving forward together and accelerating change reinforce Torch’s mission to ALWAYS support Black women writers and the stories they share. Read More Mar 7, 2025 Torch Raises over $6,000 during Amplify Austin Campaign Joining over 700 nonprofits for one of the largest giving days in Central Texas, Torch raised over $6,000 to amplify Black women writers worldwide. Read More Feb 10, 2025 Help Torch Raise $10,000 during Amplify Austin’s 2025 Giving Campaign! For the third year in a row, Torch is participating in Austin’s metro-wide giving day to merge the Black women literary community with the wider Austin giving community. Read More Feb 10, 2025 Wintergreen Women Writers Collective and Torch Literary Arts Partner to Host Welcome Table Talks Series featuring Black Women Writers The two literary organizations dedicated to creating community for Black women writers will host a series of talks over the next three years thanks to funding from the Mellon Foundation. Read More Jan 31, 2025 Celebrating Black History Month by Acknowledging Black Women Writers and Their Contributions to Literature Torch is using this year’s Black History Month theme “African Americans and Labor” to highlight the literary work we do to share our voices. Read More Jan 24, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Announces 2025 Spring Season Torch’s 2025 Spring Season is full of community collaborations, readings, writing workshops, and more to empower and encourage Black women to continue telling their stories. Read More Jan 10, 2025 Torch Literary Arts to Open Applications for the 2025 Torch Retreat on February 3rd The Torch Retreat will host its third annual writing retreat for Black women writers at the Colton House in Austin, Texas from July 20-27, 2025. Read More Jan 3, 2025 City of Austin Cultural Arts Division Awards Torch Literary Arts the Thrive Grant along with Other Cultural Arts Organizations in Austin The Cultural Arts Division awarded $13 million in funds to local arts and cultural organizations for a second year with Thrive and Elevate grants. Read More Jan 3, 2025 Torch Literary Arts Announces Retirement of Board Member Dr. Omi Osun Joni L. Jones Dr. Omi Osun Joni L. Jones joined the board in 2023 bringing her expertise as an artist, performer, author, and scholar to help support Black women writers. Read More Jan 3, 2025 Welcoming the New Year with Love and Community Taking the time to thank you all for your support in 2024 and share exciting news for 2025 Read More Dec 12, 2024 'Tis the Season for Gifts & Giving Find out how to support Torch and our community sponsors and supporters this holiday season! Read More Dec 4, 2024 Torch Surpasses Fundraising Goal for 2024 GivingTuesday Campaign Joining one of the largest international giving days, Torch surpassed its fundraising goal of $5,000. Read More Nov 22, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Celebrates GivingTuesday with Community and Board Matches, Ignite the Night, and More. Torch is joining millions around the world participating in the global generosity movement on December 3, 2024. Read More Nov 22, 2024 Torch Announces the Nominations for the Pushcart Prize Six Torch Features, Erica Frederick, A. E. Wynter, Sydney Mayes, Chidima Anekwe, Chyann Hector, and Mon Misir, are nominated for their respective works. Read More Nov 15, 2024 Torch Executive Director and Features Named as Brooks Living Legacy Honorees 20 Torch community members were named Living Legacy Honorees Read More Nov 1, 2024 Torch Literary Arts to Celebrate and Amplify Black Women Writers During the 2024 Texas Book Festival Over two days, Torch will host poet, essayist, and novelist Morgan Parker and Los Angeles Poet Laureate Lynne Thompson, and embark on a literary book crawl showcasing the works of the organization’s previous features. Read More Oct 18, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Welcomes New Team Members Thanks to capacity-building funding, Torch adds a Creative Content Associate and Administrative Fellow to the Team. Read More Oct 7, 2024 Celebrating National Book Month with Torch Literary Arts This October, Torch is celebrating National Book Month with Torch Day, an inaugural international program, and much more! Read More Sep 6, 2024 Torch Announces the Nominations for the Best of the Net Nine Torch Features were nominated for their works in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and visual art in Torch Magazine. Read More Sep 5, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Receives National Book Foundation Grant The National Book Foundation awarded Torch funding from the Capacity-Building Grant Program. Read More Aug 30, 2024 Torch Announces the Nominations for the O. Henry Prize Two Torch Features, Felicia A. Rivers and Lydia Mathis, are nominated for their respective short fiction stories. Read More Aug 29, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Releases 2024 Fall Season Torch’s 2024 Fall Season includes international poets, a screenwriting panel, workshops on character building and memoirs, the Wildfire Reading Series, and more! Read More Aug 2, 2024 Celebrate Torch’s 18th Birthday & Our Mission to Amplify Black Women Writers Our wish this August is to gain 18 new monthly recurring Torch supporters & more! Find out how to celebrate our birthday with events, well wishes, and donations. Read More Jul 19, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Welcomes Erin Waelder to the Board of Directors Erin was welcomed to the board in June, bringing her extensive background in development communications. Read More Jul 12, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Receives Poetry Foundation Grant Torch Literary Arts (Torch), a nonprofit organization dedicated to amplifying Black women writers, will receive funding from the Poetry Foundation. This is the nonprofit’s second year receiving funding from the foundation. Read More Jun 28, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Receives Burdine Johnson Foundation Grant This is Torch's third year receiving the grant that serves Central Texas arts, education, historical preservation, and environmental sustainability causes. Read More Jun 5, 2024 Celebrate Pride Month by Amplifying Queer Black Voices At Torch, we recognize the many impactful contributions that queer Black women writers have given us and wish a Happy Pride to all those celebrating! Read More May 31, 2024 Torch Feature Yael Valencia Aldana Receives Pushcart Prize For the second year in a row, a Torch Feature has received a Pushcart Prize for their amazing work published in Torch Magazine. Read More May 24, 2024 Torch Literary Arts to Receive Grants for Arts Allocation from the National Endowment for the Arts This is Torch's second year receiving funding from National Endowment for the Arts. Funding will go towards artist honorariums for retreats, workshops, panels, and readings. Read More Apr 12, 2024 Torch Announces the 2024 Retreat Fellows Eight fellows were selected to attend the second annual retreat for Black women writers at the Colton House in Austin, Texas from July 21-28, 2024. Read More Apr 11, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Welcomes Dana Weekes to Board of Directors Dana Weekes was welcomed to the board in March, bringing her extensive background in law and policy, and commitment to creation as self-care. Read More Apr 5, 2024 Celebrating National Poetry Month with an Ode to Poets Every April, Torch is elated to celebrate the Black women who put words to feelings by celebrating National Poetry Month Read More Mar 22, 2024 Website Updates: New Transparency Documents, Including Three-Year Strategic Plan Torch Literary Arts updates website to include transparency documents including IRS Form 990s, Annual Reports, and the 2024-2026 Strategic Plan. Read More Mar 8, 2024 Celebrating Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day Torch Literary Arts acknowledges and celebrates the many literary contributions of women to history and the wonderful Black women writers across the diaspora. Read More Feb 16, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Opens Applications for the 2024 Torch Retreat The Torch Retreat will host its second annual writing retreat for Black women writers at the Colton House in Austin, Texas from July 21-28, 2024. Read More Feb 9, 2024 Celebrating Black History & Futures 24/7, 366 days This Black History Month, Torch acknowledges the importance of amplifying Black women writers year-round. Read More Jan 30, 2024 Austin Community Foundation Announces Torch Literary Arts as one of The Black Fund Grant Partners The Black Fund’s recognition of Torch Literary Arts as a grant partner allows Torch to continue hosting special events for Black women writers in the Austin community. Read More Jan 26, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Unveils 2024 Spring Season Torch’s 2024 Spring Season is full of workshops, panels, an interactive literary cooking event, and much more to help Black women writers share their unique stories. Read More Jan 16, 2024 Torch Literary Arts Announces Transitions to 2024 Board of Directors This year’s board transition includes the retirement of former board chair, Florinda Bryant, and elections of new board chair, Dr. Sequoia Maner, new secretary, Stephanie Lang, and new board member, Shannon Johnson Read More Jan 9, 2024 Culture Ireland Awards Torch Literary Arts Funding to Host Irish Poets Torch will use the Culture Ireland funding to host Irish poets Nithy Kasa and FELISPEAKS for interactive writing workshops from October 1-7, 2024. Read More

Torch Literary Arts publishes creative writing by Black women online. We curate public events including our Wildfire Reading Series and offer workshops and retreats. Introducing our law firm Amplifying Black Women Writers Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to publish and promote creative writing by Black women. We publish contemporary writing by emerging and experienced writers alike. Torch Magazine 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, writing workshops, retreats, and special events. Torch Magazine Read Online August 2026 Torch 20th Anniversary Special Feature: Patricia Smith & Lynne Thompson In this special joint feature, literary powerhouses and best friends Lynne Thompson and Patricia Smith talk about sisterhood. Lynne Thompson served as Los Angeles’ 4th Poet Laureate and is the author of four collections of poetry: Beg No Pardon; Start With A Small Guitar; Fretwork; and, Blue on a Blue Palette. A lawyer by training, Thompson serves on the Boards of The Poetry Foundation, Los Angeles Review of Books, her alma mater, Scripps College, and is the current President Friday Feature: Jordan Bolden Majewski Jordan Bolden Majewski (she/they) is a Black queer poet and essayist living in the Bay Area. Her work explores the embodied experience of Black motherhood in its full spectrum– the many dangers, surprises, and joys. Bolden Majewski’s work has always been grounded in the body– the places we touch and pull away, the ways we hurt and are healed, the things we carry inside ourselves that we hold apart from others. They write about the systems we must carry our bodies through– the 2025 Torch Visual Artist: Nitashia Johnson Nitashia Johnson is a multimedia visual artist and educator from Dallas, Texas whose work has been exhibited across Texas and internationally. To care about stories is to care about the world, and understanding our own gives us purpose. For as long as she can remember, storytelling through art has been Nitashia Johnson’s way of understanding the world around her and her place within it. As a multidisciplinary artist and educator from Dallas, Texas, her journey since life st EVENTS Black Bookstore Day Sat, Aug 29 Torch Literary Arts - Torch Center More info Learn more The Turn Up Open Mic Tue, Sep 01 Torch Center at The LINC More info Learn more Multiple Dates Torch Writing Cirlce Sat, Sep 12 Zoom More info Learn more Load More Read News Learn More

The Team Amanda Johnston Founder / Executive Director Read More Sierra Lewis Administrative Associate Read More Dana Weekes Board Treasurer Read More Dalia Azim Board Member Read More Jen Margulies Advisory Board Member Read More Brittany Heckard Communications Associate Read More Dr. Sequoia Maner Board Chair Read More Shannon Johnson Board Member Read More Hallie S. Hobson Advisory Board Member Read More Sheree L. Ross Advisory Board Member Read More Jae Nichelle Associate Editor Read More Rachel E. Winston Board Secretary Read More Erin Waelder Board Member Read More Raina Fields Advisory Board Member Read More Parneshia Jones Advisory Board Member Read More

< Back Celebrating the Milestones of Community and History through Literary Greatness and Storytelling this Black History Month Brittany Heckard Feb 1, 2026 This year’s Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” urges us to acknowledge the historical impact of Black narratives. 2026 is the year of anniversaries – Torch’s 20th Anniversary, 100 years of celebrating Black History Month, and the United States’ 250th Anniversary. This trifecta of anniversaries underscores the importance of storytelling. In celebrating this Black History Month’s theme of “A Century of Black Commemorations,” we recognize the impact Black women writers have on America’s history. This month, we celebrate the truthseekers and truthtellers of the past, present, and future. Reflecting on these three anniversaries occurring this year, there’s an unavoidable connection between Black women writers and this nation’s history. Stories of America through the lens of Black women provide readers with an unignorable question: how long will Black History run parallel to the stories of America without proper acknowledgement? We may not know the answer, but we understand the importance of preserving our history and legacy regardless. History is memorialized through storytelling, and Torch’s community of Black women writers is undauntedly sharing theirs. Since 2006, Torch has cultivated an environment for preservation. The many warnings and commentaries from Black women writers in the past eerily foreshadow the future when ignored. This is why Torch exists. Our organization is a history book of Black women from around the world who speak to the times. We appreciate Black women storytellers all day, every day, but especially during such a commemorative year for this organization, a reflective celebration for Black History Month, and an introspective one for our country. If you’re looking for some February fun or want to see how you can support Torch’s work this month, here are a few ways: Donate to our Amplify Austin campaign : We’re raising $10,000 this year for one of the biggest giving days in Austin. Your contribution automatically enters you to win prizes and support our mission to amplify Black women writers. Join us for two screenings at Austin Film Society: Our new partnership with Austin Film Society kicks off this month with two screenings. You can watch Daughters of the Dust and/or Compensation (ASL provided) in community with us! Attend a Reading for our 3rd Annual Writers Across the Diaspora Series: This year, we’re excited to bring Dr. Malika Booker for a reading and conversation in partnership with Texas State University. We have two options – one event at Texas State University in San Marcos , and one event at the Carver Museum in Austin . Sign up for our first Workshop of the year: 2025 Torch Fellow, Starr Davis, will be leading “ Writing as Oath: Personal Truthtelling in Memoir and Essay ”. This free workshop will focus on craft, precision, and sustaining yourself as a writer while telling the truth of your life. As we celebrate this Black History Month’s theme of commemoration for a century, we encourage Black women to continue writing, to continue sharing, and to be bold and affirmative. We challenge readers to reflect on the times and continue reading works from Black women. Last but not least, we thank our Torch community, donors, and supporters for championing our organization for 20 years. Previous Next

< Back Torch Literary Arts to Open Registration for “A Gathering of Flames: Celebrating 20 Years of Torch Literary Arts” on March 16th Mar 12, 2026 The inaugural gala and conference will feature Rachel Eliza Griffiths, Sharon Bridgforth, Patricia Smith, and Crystal Wilkinson from September 25-27, 2026, in Austin, Texas. 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/ . ### 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 Previous Next

< Back Thanking Our Funders for their Support for Black Women Writers Jun 28, 2026 In our 20th Anniversary year, seven major funders are stepping up to support Torch’s mission to amplify Black women writers. With major funding deficits affecting nonprofits, especially Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits like Torch, we want to thank our funders for their unwavering support for our mission. While funding for Torch has been affected, we have gained new partners and sustained previous funders to help fuel our flame. We want to thank the Poetry Foundation , City of Austin , The Burdine Johnson Foundation , Art Power , Austin Community Foundation , Literary Arts Fund , and Texas Commission on the Arts for their continued support of Black women writers and a diverse and inclusive literary landscape. These major funders have helped us prepare to open our first physical location in Austin. The Torch Center, opening this summer, will be a literary anchor in the Austin community, and a permanent resource and destination for Black women writers around the world. Unrestricted donations from these funders ensure that Torch leadership is trusted with our mission and decision-making for the long-term success of our nonprofit. Despite our loss of over $45,000 in funding, we are unwavering in our commitment to serving our community. We are especially grateful to our Community Impact Members (CIMs): a consistent group of recurring donors who give $100 annually or more to sustain Torch’s work and impact. As we enter 2026, we look forward to continued relationships with our major funding partners and individual donors, and can’t wait to celebrate the impact from that support at our 20th Anniversary Gathering of Flames Conference in September. Looking ahead, we anticipate more fruitful opportunities to continue growing and amplifying Black women storytellers around the world. If you are interested in becoming a CIM and learning more about the benefits, including your name at the Torch Center, visit torchliteraryarts.org/donate . ### About Torch Literary Arts Torch Literary Arts (Torch) 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, writing workshops, and retreats. Help Torch continue to publish and promote Black women writers by donating today. Previous Next

< Back Sierra Lewis Administrative Associate Sierra Lewis is an administrator, creative entrepreneur, and cultural curator whose work centers on supporting Black, women, and value-driven communities. Born in Baltimore and based in Austin, she brings experience across nonprofit, arts, education, social service, and entrepreneurship, with a deep commitment to building systems that sustain creative work and community. She is the founder and former brick-and-mortar owner of New Origin Shop, a curated retail platform uplifting independent makers, many of them Black women. Sierra brings a background in marketing, digital storytelling, and e-commerce, with experience building community and operations across both physical and digital spaces. She is a BeyGOOD Foundation grant recipient and a Goldman Sachs Black in Business scholar, and her work has been featured on Texas Today NBC 5. Sierra is honored to support Torch Literary Arts in amplifying the voices of Black women writers and strengthening the infrastructure that sustains their work.

Torch Literary Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that creates advancement opportunities for Black women writers. Contact Torch First Name Last Name Email Address Phone (entering gives Torch permission to contact you) Write a message Submit Thanks for submitting! Torch Literary Arts 6406 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd Suite 1807 Austin, TX 78752 (map ) Torch Center Hours Tue. Noon - 6:00 p.m. Wed. Noon - 6:00 p.m. Thur. Noon - 6:00 p.m. Check our calendar for special events. Contact for Torch Center Rental Inquiries Email: contact@torchliteraryarts.org Phone: (512) 641-9251 Phone: (512) 641-9251 Phone: (512) 641-9251 Torch Center 6406 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd Suite 1807 Austin, TX 78752 (map )

< Back Torch Raises $5,593 for 2025 GivingTuesday Campaign Dec 5, 2025 Joining one of the largest international giving days, Torch raised $5,593. Thanks to generous support from the Torch Community, Torch raised $5,593 this GivingTuesday. Although we didn’t reach our goal of $7,000, we surpassed last year’s goal of $5,000, meaning we’re continuously growing as a community. With support from board matches and individual donations, Torch is on par to reach our end of year fundraising goal of $40,000. Whether you shared your story about Torch online, donated your first donation, or are a continuous supporter, we want to thank all individual donors for making this happen! Once again, we are truly grateful for the community we’ve been building since 2006. Individual donors like you are consistently helping us reach our increased annual giving goals and showing up for Black women writers. Thank you! Torch’s Executive and Advisory Boards also collectively matched $500 of raised donations this #GivingTuesday . Having board support as a small literary nonprofit is not only a signal of the impact of our mission, but a reflection of the internal dedication of our organization. The continued support from our Board both monetary and in-kind is always appreciated and never goes unnoticed. The giving season isn’t over! We are still raising funds to meet our end-of-year individual fundraising goal of $40,000! If you’re interested in donating, or know someone who is, please visit torchliteraryarts.org/donate . For more details about the GivingTuesday movement, visit givingtuesday.org . About Torch Literary Arts Torch Literary Arts (Torch) 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, writing workshops, and retreats. Help TORCH continue to publish and promote Black women writers by donating today. About GivingTuesday GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity to transform communities and the world. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Over the past eleven years, it has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts and everyone has something to give. GivingTuesday strives to build a world in which the catalytic power of generosity is at the heart of the society we build together, unlocking dignity, opportunity and equity around the globe. Previous Next

< Back Torch Literary Arts Welcomes Erin Waelder to the Board of Directors Brittany Heckard Jul 19, 2024 Erin was welcomed to the board in June, bringing her extensive background in development communications. AUSTIN, Tex., July 19, 2024 – Torch Literary Arts is pleased to welcome Erin Waelder to the Board of Directors. Her experience and knowledge in the arts as a development and marketing leader will add innovative fundraising initiatives and guide the leadership team as Torch grows. Erin is a nonprofit arts professional in Austin, TX. As a member of the Development and Marketing teams at the Paramount & State Theatres, she helps manage annual fund campaigns, donor communications, and special content across the organization’s platforms. She has over a decade of experience in fundraising and patron services through her previous positions at Ballet Austin, the Paramount & State Theatres, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum. She is the immediate past Chair of the Community Advisory Board at Austin PBS and volunteers with Preservation Austin. Erin graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from St. Edward’s University. She is dedicated to creating meaningful connections to the community through storytelling and the arts. You can see the full list of directors and advisory board members here . ### About Torch Literary Arts Torch Literary Arts (TORCH) 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, writing workshops, and retreats. 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 Previous Next

< Back Torch Announces New Community Impact Member Donation Initiative Brittany Heckard May 28, 2025 The Community Impact Membership (CIM) program provides Torch’s monthly donors of at least $10 and annual donors of at least $100 with exclusive items and updates. At Torch, our mission is to uplift Black women writers through building a community where they are seen and heard. Our community, like our impact, is large and intentional. It is filled with emerging and experienced writers, lovers of authentic storytelling, and our supporters. A special group of supporters we want to acknowledge moving forward is our individual donors who give monthly and annually to fuel our mission. Individual giving strengthens our revenue stream with direct, unrestricted contributions. According to Giving USA’s 2024 Annual Report , individual donors accounted for 67% of total charitable donations in 2023. To say thank you to our individual donors, we’re introducing our Community Impact Membership (CIM) program for donors who give at least $10 monthly or $100 annually. CIMs will also receive various benefits depending on their sustainer level, including gifts like Torch stickers, T-shirts, event benefits, and more! You can check out our Community Impact Sustainer Levels and their benefits below. Community Impact Member Sustainer Levels Torch Community – $10 Monthly or $120 Annually Torch Sticker Monthly Newsletter Invitation to the Torch End of Year Celebration Invitation to Special Events Acknowledgment on our Website and in the Annual Report Torch Friend – $25 Monthly or $300 Annually Firestarter: Collection of Torch Writing Prompts (downloadable) Plus, all Community Member Benefits Torch Ally – $50 Monthly or $600 Annually Invitation to Torch Mixers Classic Torch Shirt Plus, all Community & Friend Member Benefits Torch Advocate – $100 Monthly or $1,200 Annually Limited Edition Broadside (high-quality print) Plus, all Community, Friend & Ally Member Benefits Torch Sustainer – $210 Monthly or $2,500 Annually Reserved Premium Seating Invitation to Exclusive Author Receptions Plus, all Community, Friend, Ally, and Advocate Member Benefits Torch Champion – $425 Monthly or $5,000 Annually Event Program Recognition Wall Recognition Plus, all Community, Friend, Ally, Advocate, and Sustainer Member Benefits All of the CIM donations are 100% tax-deductible. You can become a CIM by choosing one of the sustainer levels on our donation page at torchliteraryarts.org/donate . ### 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. Previous Next