The foundation of the LIT-Ink is building connections through storytelling. Storytelling is our most defining characteristic as humans. At its root, stories allow humans to unify through the overlapping of experiences such as pain, joy, fear and love. Stories create empathy and compassion which allow us to connect at our most basic level.

LIT-Ink 24-week residencies create a brave space that allows students to embrace the idea of new perspectives while exploring their beliefs, ideas and feelings, alongside others in the same storytelling process.​ ​

The first 12 weeks, students engage in critical conversation and reflections through the lens of poetic narrative and writing as a tool for expression. Students participate in creative writing workshops that guide them through distinct phases of writing (drafting, revision, editing, publishing), alongside performance workshops with a focus on public speaking & reclaiming voice. ​ ​

The culmination of this first 12-week residency series, all participants will have an opportunity to join fellow students in the L’INK Up Festival.

For more information, contact Monique Espinoza at monique.espinoza@mesaaz.gov 

or 480-644-6621.