VFA: Diversity and Importance

Sunday, October 15, 2023 4:00-5:15 EDT (1:00pm – 2:15 pm PDT) – Online event

From the Victoria Festival of Authors:

“Join us for this online panel of three diverse Indigenous creators. Indigenous peoples know that stories are an integral part of who we are; however, Indigenous literature includes a number of diverse elements, not limited to identities, language, traditional knowledge, land, spirituality, orality, gender, resistance, and authenticity. Literature is a space where we can read and learn about the diversity of human experiences, and it has become more important to ensure there is accurate Indigenous representation in such spaces. With the history of colonization, a history that mainstream Canadian society has only just begun to understand, the importance of listening to Indigenous voices is essential. By learning more about diverse histories and stories, readers can become more informed and work toward reconciliation.

Moderated by Samantha Beynon

Curated by Nadya Comeau and Katrina Philpotts

This event is captioned

NOTE: Alicia Elliot is no longer able to appear in this event, and has been replaced by Katłįà Lafferty”


The Victoria Festival of Authors takes place on the unceded traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking people. We recognize with deep gratitude the privilege of living, working, learning and creating as visitors on these lands, and are committed to doing our work in the spirit of reconciliation and with humility. 

Every year since, VFA expands the depth and breadth of its programming, inviting writers from Vancouver Island and beyond to share their works with our community of readers. Our annual festival is a celebration of ideas to recharge our imaginations. From politics to poetry, science to music, history to thrillers, we celebrate the richness of Canada’s literary community, and are passionate about providing a welcoming, respectful and comfortable environment for all.

In 2022, we will combine the strengths of traditional and virtual programming to deliver our second hybrid festival. We are excited to present seven in-person events that celebrate the writers of our province. Five of these can also be watched from the comfort of your living room, as they will be livestreamed for free. In addition, we will have four Zoom events, featuring authors from across North America.

We gratefully acknowledge the generous financial support of the BC Arts Council, Canada Council, the CRD, the City of Victoria, Access Copyright, the Victoria Foundation, and our festival sponsor and bookseller Munro’s Books for ensuring our festival remains accessible and vibrant.

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