FutureWords

WELCOME TO  FUTUREWORDS

FutureWords is a new program for young writers being developed by AfterWords. And its timing feels crucial given the tumultuous state the world is in with the ongoing climate chaos, genocides, homelessness and the intense and very real class divisions becoming wider, austerity budgets and authoritative rulers (I purposefully chose not to use the word “leader” for obvious reasons) and the general political disregard for a more humane, relational way of being with each other and with the flora and fauna we live with. We’re also keeping an intense and relentless pace with little time for the things that recharge us. No wonder we’re tired, right?

Research shows that engaging with our imagination by practicing the curiosity the creative process invites is good for reinvigorating our brains, bodies, and spirits. And our young people are facing a future we can no longer imagine which is why making space for creative adventures feels especially important right now. I’m a poet and consider language to be a living and growing thing, an ecosystem of sorts. And I think that aspects of the future can be pollinated with words that green a better way forward, written and spoken by adventuresome people. I’m excited by how FutureWords is creating a space for our young people and their imaginations to practice being curious and for them to meet for the company they’ll be for each other. And I’m super excited to read/hear the writers who will be writing us into our future.  

Sue Goyette
FutureWords Team Coordinator
Kjipuktuk (Halifax)