Here in the Bay Area, diversity, equity, and inclusion were core values long before they were either buzzwords or “bad words.” We’ve always been known for promoting viewpoints too often silenced elsewhere. Your support of Litquake is one way to shout loud and proud that these principles aren’t going anywhere. Our spring fundraising goal of $20,000 will directly support festival and year-round programs that feature underrepresented voices and serve a broad range of audiences. Gifts of any size add up—and also help our programs remain accessible to all Bay Area readers. Amid (and despite) national chaos and confusion, Litquake is presenting our most ambitious spring author series to date, while also laying the groundwork for our annual festival this October, when we’ll hand the mic to hundreds of writers from across California and around the world. At a time when writers and readers alike can feel isolated, diminished, and threatened, Litquake brings us together, makes their work visible, and reminds us all—in San Francisco and beyond—of the enduring power of stories and storytellers. It’s no secret that cutbacks to federal funding are creating uncertainty across arts and cultural organizations, including Litquake. With your help, we can plan this year’s festival with confidence, fearless in our commitment to lift up the values and voices that matter most. Thank you for joining us in this fight. Yours, Norah Piehl Executive Director |