Frequently Asked Questions

+ When and where does the RWW Writers’ Retreat take place?

The 2025 RWW Winter Writers’ Retreat will take place Sunday, January 5 – Saturday, January 11, 2025 online. This is a virtual retreat.

+ Who should attend the RWW Writers’ Retreat?

The RWW Writers’ Retreat is for adult (21+) literary artists of color of all writing experience levels. Published, unpublished and/or self-published storytellers are encouraged to apply. Whether you write fiction, nonfiction, poetry, speculative fiction, or young adult fiction, the Writers' Retreat will help you master your craft and build a literary arts community.

+ I’ve never attended a writing retreat before and I’m not sure it’s for me. What will the experience be like?

This is one of the most common hesitations we hear from prospective Fellows. They think that it will be over their heads or too hard or only for “real” writers. However, we take pride in fulfilling our mission to provide a safe and sacred space for BIPOC storytellers of all levels – from those who have never published a work of literary art to those who are widely published, and from those who’ve never participated in a writing workshop to those who have MFAs and/or PhDs. Some of the many benefits of the RWW Writers’ Retreat are that you will be supported, your art celebrated, and your pen pushed no matter where you are on your writing journey!

+ When does the application open and close?

The application for the 2025 RWW Winter Writers’ Retreat opened on August 12, 2024 and closes at 11:59 pm ET on September 15, 2024.

+ Is there a RWW Writers’ Retreat application fee?

Yes. The application fee is $25 and covers administrative costs related to the application process.

+ Is the RWW Writers’ Retreat open to applicants outside the U.S.?

Absolutely! In the past, Roots. Wounds. Words. has hosted participating storytellers from China, Abu Dhabi, Toronto, the Ivory Coast, the UK, and more.

+ What genres does the Retreat support?

The RWW Writers’ Retreat is a literary arts container that hosts craft workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, speculative fiction, writing wellness for Us, and young adult fiction.

+ I'm not a published author, can I still attend the Retreat?

Absolutely! The Roots. Wounds. Words. Writers’ Retreat is one of the best places to learn, network, and propel your writing forward, no matter where you are in your writing journey. Emerging writers tend to appreciate our more familial atmosphere and come away feeling confident about their writing, as well as enthusiastic about the connections they made and knowledge they gained. It's our belief that there is always something more to learn and take away, so that's why even seasoned authors attend our programs; eager to hone their skills, try something new, and create in a love- and liberation-centered environment.

+ I do not identify as BIPOC, can I still attend the Retreat?

Absolutely not! Roots. Wounds. Words. was established to address the historic and contemporary racial and ethnic inequities in the literary arts industry. We are still vehemently committed to this cause. As such, the Writers’ Retreat is only open to people who are Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, and Brown. We strongly encourage BIPOC folks who also intersectionally identify as queer, trans, gender nonconforming, poverty-born, justice-involved, nuero-divergent, and disabled to apply and attend.

+ What does the Roots. Wounds. Words. Writers' Retreat application require?

In addition to an artist bio, artist statement of interest, and link to the artist website (if applicable), the RWW Writers’ Retreat application requires applicants to submit a manuscript in accordance with the genre they intend to study while at the retreat. Applicants interested in the Fiction Workshop must submit a fiction manuscript, applicants interested in the Nonfiction workshop must submit a nonfiction manuscript, and so forth.

+ What are the requirements for the application manuscript?

We require a standard format for all fiction, nonfiction, speculative fiction, and young adult fiction submissions. The format is:

• No more than 10 pages. May include one or more stories/essays as long as the total number of pages is within the 10-page limit.
• 1-inch page margins.
• Double spaced.
• Text must be in a 12-point serif font (preferably Times New Roman).
• Electronic file names must consist of the writer’s last name followed by the manuscript title. For example, Smith__A Day in the Park. Poets and those with a longer manuscript title can simply use something like Smith__manuscript for RootsWoundsWords
• The manuscript must be submitted as a PDF or Word document
• The applicant’s name and page number must appear on each sheet of the manuscript; for example, Smith, p.1
• If you are submitting prose, you must include a brief note regarding whether the piece stands on its own as a short story or essay, or is an excerpt from a longer project.
• Manuscripts excerpted from a longer project should include a one-page synopsis of the larger project placed at the back of the work sample (the synopsis can be single-spaced and does not count toward the 10-page limit).

We require a standard format for poetry submissions. The format is:

• No more than 10 pages. May include one or more poems as long as the total number of pages is within the 10-page limit.
• Electronic file names must consist of the writer’s last name followed by the manuscript title. For example, Smith__A Day in the Park. Poets and those with a longer manuscript title can simply use something like Smith__manuscript for RootsWoundsWords
• The manuscript must be submitted as a PDF or Word document
• The applicant’s name and page number must appear on each sheet of the manuscript; for example, Smith, p.1

+ Is there a place on the application for the name of a recommender or reference?

Nah. Roots. Wounds. Words. bases retreat application decisions on the writing itself – both the writing quality and the writing potential. Consequently, we do not ask for references or recommendations. However, in your artist statement or bio, you are welcome to include the names of teachers you’ve worked with, or someone who’s recommended the Roots. Wounds. Words. experience to you. The decision to either include or not include these names will not impact your application in any way.

+ I’d like to apply now, but send my writing sample in later. Is that okay?

Nope. The RWW Writers' Retreat application requires that the manuscript is submitted at the same time the application is filed. We are unable to review an application without a manuscript.

+ Is the manuscript submitted for the application the one that will be used in the workshops?

That’s completely up to you. The manuscript sent with the application is not always the one used in the retreat workshop. After acceptance, there will be an opportunity to submit a different manuscript for the retreat workshop, one that would benefit from the review and response process.

+ Will literary agents be at the retreat? How do I schedule a meeting with them?

At Roots. Wounds. Words., our focus is primarily on literary arts craft, storytelling, community-building, restoration, and liberation. As a result, we do not bring in agents with the specific purpose of reviewing submitted work. We do on occasion feature publishing professionals to discuss the industry and best practices.

+ What if I register, but then decide the Writers' Retreat isn’t for me? What’s the Refund Policy?

• The $25 application fee is nonrefundable
• A $700 deposit will be due no later than October 11, 2024. Receipt of deposit confirms your attendance.
• Full deposit refunds will be issued for Storytellers who cancel their participation in the Writers' Retreat no later than October 25, 2024.
• Refunds will not be issued to Storytellers who seek to cancel participation in the Writers' Retreat after October 25, 2024.

+ Do I have to attend the entire Retreat?

Yes.

+ How many writers attend the RWW Writers’ Retreat?

The Writers’ Retreat will host approximately 80 persons, including Storytellers, Core Faculty, Visiting Faculty, and the RWW leadership team.

Because our retreat is smaller than most, we are able to provide the personal and intimate experience that many larger retreats, workshops and conferences lack. That means Storytellers will have more opportunities to have face-to-face interaction with Faculty and one another in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Smaller numbers also allows us to incorporate joy-, liberation-, and healing-centered activities, personal details that make the RWW Writers’ Retreat experience a unique and memorable one.

+ How should I dress?

However you like. Your identity and the fashion you choose to represent it will always be celebrated by us.

+ If the Writers' Retreat is in-person, do I need to bring anything with me?

Beyond a sacred notebook for journaling and/or generating literary art, it's a good idea to bring spare pens (we’ll also give you some), a laptop/tablet, and a thumb drive. You will also be expected to have print-outs of all the literary art you will review as part of your cohort’s work. You may print said work at the facility, but will need to use a thumb drive to do so.

In addition, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, sweatshirt(s) for the potentially cool nights/early mornings, as well as lounge/yoga/workout attire for some of the activities.

+ If the Writers' Retreat is in person, may I stay somewhere offsite during the Retreat?

No. A large part of the RWW Writers' Retreat experience is community-building. We are only able to do this by workshopping, participating in activities, dining, and resting together.

+ What’s the overnight room situation?

If the Writers' Retreat is in-person, each Storyteller will be assigned to a double room they will share with one other Storyteller. Only a limited number of single rooms will be available. Storytellers may choose roommates among themselves or be assigned a roommate based on a questionnaire that they will complete during the summer of 2024.

+ If the Writers' Retreat is in person, what's the food situation?

We've got you covered . . . mostly. Your tuition takes care of room and board. As a result, you will receive breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you would like snacks between meals or if you have a very specialized diet or severe food allergy, it is best to bring what you will need.

Please note: we cannot reimburse you for food if you choose to forgo the included meals.

+ How much does the Retreat cost to attend?

Tuition is $1,500.00.

Partial scholarships and payment plans will be available.

+ Can I make installment payments on my registration?

Yes. You may either pay the cost of the Writers' Retreat in full or opt to use our payment plan.

+ Can I purchase a day pass to the Retreat?

No, the RWW Writers' Retreat does not offer day passes.

+ Are scholarships available?

Yes, there are partial scholarships.

+ I don't like to pay online. Can I pay another way?

Unfortunately, no. All payments must be made electronically.

+ Should I attend the Retreat if I am unpublished?

Of course! RWW provides a retreat experience that celebrates Storytellers at every stage of their writing careers. Whether you’re unpublished or widely-published, this Retreat will serve your literary craft needs. It is also a wonderful opportunity to build community with other writers.

+ When do applications open?

Applications open on August 12, 2024 and close on September 8, 2024.

+ When will acceptance notifications be made?

RWW will notify all applicants of whether they’ve been accepted to the Retreat by September 23, 2024.

+ Can I bring a laptop computer or tape recorder to take notes?

Yes, laptops are allowed. No, taping is not permitted because it infringes on the privacy rights of Faculty, Fellows, and other guests.

+ How do I submit my piece to my Faculty leader for critique?

After acceptances are sent out and during the registration process, Storytellers will be provided a dedicated Slack workroom to communicate with one another, as well as your Faculty.

+ I missed the application deadline. Can I still apply?

Please do, for next year.

+ Is there an age restriction to attend the Retreat?

Yes. Storytellers must be at least 21 years old.

+ I am a student, is there a student rate?

No, we do not offer a student rate.

+ Do you accommodate special needs?

Definitely! We make sure our physical facilaties and online spaces are accessible.

+ Why are the RWW Writers' Retreat and RWW events often less expensive than others?

Roots. Wounds. Words. was established to provide BIPOC storytellers with free and/or truly affordable top-quality literary arts programs. RWW secures grant funding to cover or supplement the costs of our offerings. Our philosophy, simply put, is that capitalism should never ice BIPOC storytellers out of literary arts education.

+ Who are the Faculty Members?

The faculty is composed of award-winning BIPOC authors who are on the forefront of the literary arts world. Please view the Writers' Retreat Faculty page.

+ Why should I attend the RWW Writers’ Retreat over another writers’ workshop, conference or retreat?

Our answer may surprise you – try to attend as many literary arts programs as you can afford. Most have something to contribute to your career as a writer. However, the RWW Writers’ Retreat experience is unique because of our focused commitment to BIPOC storytellers, our intentionality around love and liberation, our commitment to providing BIPOC storytellers with truly affordable literary arts programming, our curation of nightly showcases that amplify our Storytellers’ art, our publication of a Storytellers’ anthology, and our demand that only BIPOC storytellers be centered and celebrated from the page to the stage during this sacred offering. Therefore, if you can only afford to attend one retreat, we strongly encourage you to choose this one.

+ Who should attend Roots. Wounds. Words. writing programs?

Roots. Wounds. Words. offers fiction, nonfiction, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting, and performance workshops for BIPOC literary artists of all experience levels. Published, unpublished or self-published, fiction, poetry, non-fiction or scriptwriting—everything we offer here is to help you master your craft and become a successful storyteller!

+ I’ve never participated in a writing workshop before. Is this for me?

This is one of the most common hesitations we hear from folks new to writing or contemplating writing as a supplemental healing modality. They think that it will be over their heads or too hard or only for “real” writers. However, at Roots. Wounds. Words., we take pride in fulfilling our mission to provide a safe and sacred space for BIPOC writers of all levels – from those who have never published a work of literary art to those who are widely published, and from those who’ve never participated in a writing workshop to those who have MFAs and/or PHDs. No matter what your writing background and goals are, when you participate in Roots. Wounds. Words. literary arts offerings, you will be supported, your art celebrated, and your pen pushed!

+ How do I know which workshops I should attend?

All Roots. Wounds. Words. workshops are listed on our website. Each listing provides the title, description and date of the program. Don’t overthink it. Choose to attend any and all workshops that speak to your spirit.

+ What do I do if there’s a workshop I’d like to attend but it’s at capacity or offered at a time I cannot attend?

This happens to everyone. The good news is that we offer many of our workshops repeatedly. Just sign up for the next offering.

+ What are the fees attached to the Roots. Wounds. Words. workshops?

Roots. Wounds. Words. seeks to provide free to truly affordable literary arts programming. We’re able to do this thanks to individual donors and organizational partners. Consequently, every workshop is either offered for free OR donations-based (through Eventbrite). In addition, we empower participants who can afford full tuition to pay said cost directly on our website.

+ Are Roots. Wounds. Words. writing workshops open to applicants outside the U.S.?

Absolutely! In the past, Roots. Wounds. Words. has hosted participating storytellers from China, Abu Dhabi, Toronto, and more.

+ I do not identify as BIPOC, can I still participate in Roots. Wounds. Words. workshops?

Absolutely not! Roots. Wounds. Words. was established to address the historic and contemporary racial and ethnic inequities in the literary arts industry. We are still vehemently committed to this cause. As such, Roots. Wounds. Words. programming is only open to people who are Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian, and Brown. We strongly encourage BIPOC folks who also identify as queer, trans, gender nonconforming, poverty-born, justice-involved, and differently-abled to attend our offerings. Our tribe celebrates intersectional identities of all flavors and varieties.

+ How many participating storytellers does each Roots. Wounds. Words. writing workshop accommodate?

Generally, Roots. Wounds. Words. writing workshops host no more than 15 participating storytellers. Because our literary arts offerings are smaller than most, we are able to provide the more personal and intimate experience that many larger workshops lack. That means participating storytellers have more opportunities to have face-to-face interaction with facilitators and one another in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Smaller numbers also allows for a familial environment to emerge over the course of each workshop. This sense of familiarity and comfort greatly benefits participating storytellers’ writing and performances, making the Roots. Wounds. Words. experience a unique and memorable one.

+ Do I need to bring anything with me?

Yes. Bring your sacred notebook for generating literary art, writing utensils (pens, pencils, markers, and/or highlighters) a lyric-less musical playlist, libations, and snacks.

+ Should I attend a Roots. Wounds. Words. workshop if I am unpublished?

Of course! Roots. Wounds. Words. provides a writing workshop experience that is geared to storytellers at every stage of their writing careers. Whether you’re unpublished or widely-published, our literary arts programming will serve your needs.

+ Why are your workshops often much less expensive than others?

Roots. Wounds. Words. was established to provide BIPOC storytellers with free and/or truly affordable top-quality literary arts programs. Roots. Wounds. Words. is grateful for the individual donations and grant funding that we’ve received. These funds help us to cover or supplement the costs of our offerings. Our philosophy, simply put, is that money should never serve as a barrier to literary arts education.

+ Who are the workshop facilitators?

The lead workshop facilitator is our Executive Director, Nicole Shawan Junior. Other facilitators are award-winning BIPOC poets and writers who are on the forefront of the literary arts world. These include storytellers such as Joel L. Daniels, Omotara James, JP Howard, and many more.

+ Why should I attend the Roots. Wounds. Words. Writers’ writing workshop over another workshop?

Our answer may surprise you – try to attend as many literary arts programs as you can afford. Most have something to contribute to your career as a writer. However, the Roots. Wounds. Words. workshop experience is unique because of our focused commitment to BIPOC storytellers, our intentionality around wellness and healing, our commitment to providing BIPOC storytellers with truly affordable literary arts programming, our curation of monthly storyteller showcases that center participating storyteller’s art, our publication of an annual anthology featuring participating storytellers, and our demand that only BIPOC stories be centered and celebrated from the page to the stage during our sacred offerings. Therefore, if you can only afford to attend one writing workshop, we strongly encourage you to choose ours.