Intro to memoir for Survivors of Domestic Violence in partnership with interact (Raleigh)

Creative writing can be a powerful tool for processing life events, finding your voice, and sharing your unique perspective.

Have you ever wanted to tell your own story, but been unsure where to start? Do you long to write about your own life, but aren’t sure how to approach it? Through a series of writing exercises, discussions, readings, and workshops, this class will teach you how to tell true stories about yourself, your loved ones, and your experiences. This class will provide you with a safe space to write your story and share your work, will allow you to explore writing creatively based on your life experiences and observations, and will empower you to find your voice and explore subjects that might feel taboo, frightening, or shameful. (That being said, you’ll never have to write about subjects you don’t feel ready to engage with—we’ll share the tools of creative writing and you can use them however you find most helpful to you!)

You will turn in one writing submission during the course of the class. This course is designed for students with little to no workshopping experience. This course is open only to survivors of domestic violence and is free of charge. (Note: although this is memoir class, we welcome fiction writers who want to use real life as an inspiration as well!) 

Instructors: Arshia Simkin and Emily Cataneo

Dates: Begins Tuesday, March 12 and runs every Tuesday for six weeks [NOTE: The first class period is completed, but please email Arshia to sign up, as you are still welcome to join in!]

Time: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Level: Beginner and above

8 seats max 

Location: 719 N. Person St., Raleigh

Cost: This class is available free of charge thanks to a grant from the NC Arts Council and from a generous donation from North State bank. This class is only open to survivors of domestic violence. Just fill out this short form with your name and email (and remember to hit submit)! Email asimkin [at] redbudwriting.org with any questions.