Class

Writing Your Queer Life: A Diversifying Writers Creative Nonfiction Class

Personal essays offer queer writers a radical chance to reclaim their stories—to define, in their own words, who they are, what they value, and how they see the world. Too often, in workshops dominated by cisgender and heterosexual voices, queer and trans storytellers face added burdens: Should I translate my language for others? Should I explain what my community already understands? Do I risk reinforcing stereotypes—or is it even my job to subvert them? These questions can make the act of writing feel daunting before it even begins.

This one-day seminar and generative writing session is designed to lift that weight. Open to queer and trans writers at all levels, it offers a supportive space to consider these questions without being constrained by them. Together, we’ll read and discuss excerpts from contemporary queer and trans essayists navigating today’s literary landscape, examining their work for craft techniques. Guided prompts will then help you explore your own voice among peers who share similar experiences.

These classes cover the issues and traditions of writers of color and Indigenous writers; LGBTQIA+ writers; writers with disabilities; and other writers from marginalized backgrounds. This space is intended for marginalized writers to work on their craft in a space that centers them and their work. We ask all participants to be cognizant of that core value. Anti-discrimination and US human rights laws prevent the exclusion of anyone based on their identity. If you are not a writer with a marginalized background, please be mindful of the space and energy you take up in a class intended to uplift traditionally marginalized and silenced communities. Anyone being disruptive may be asked to leave.

These classes are offered on a pay what you can basis. At checkout, students may select the "pay what you can" option and enter any amount, including $0.

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Please complete this request form at least two to three weeks in advance if you have any accessibility requests for this class. This class takes place in-person, at the Loft at Open Book. Please see the Loft’s website for the most up to date information about the Loft’s COVID policies.

Juliet Patterson is a fiscal year 2025 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.