NEW YORK -- After its abrupt cancellation last year by the Smithsonian Institution, the Asian American Literature Festival is set to rise again, as announced by the Asian American Literature Festival Collective on Thursday. Scheduled for September 14-22, this revival comes with a significant twist: independence from the Smithsonian's involvement. Instead, the festival will span both in-person and virtual events across the nation, with cities such as New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Seattle, Atlanta, Athens in Georgia, and Champaign in Illinois hosting a diverse array of readings, salons, workshops, and interactive installations. Additionally, gatherings are planned in New Zealand and Australia, expanding the festival's reach beyond U.S. borders.
Originating as a biannual gathering in 2017, the festival serves as a vital platform for writers, publishers, and creatives within the Asian diaspora. Historically, it operated in collaboration with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center, hosting events at esteemed Washington locations like the National Portrait Gallery and the Library of Congress. However, the festival's momentum was abruptly halted last year, a mere month before its scheduled August opening, citing "administrative/logistical reasons," according to Smithsonian officials.
Despite the setback, the festival's spirit remained resilient, with voices within the community advocating for its return. Cathy Linh Che, Executive Director of Kundiman, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Asian American writers and readers, emphasized that the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center still has outstanding financial obligations to festival organizers. "We would hope that the Smithsonian will show accountability and repair for their past harm, as a way of rebuilding the trust that they have broken," Che stated.
In response, the Smithsonian Institution expressed openness to future collaboration while expressing enthusiasm for the festival's return. They clarified that payments were made to 48 individuals and three organizations for completed work, with two individuals voluntarily forgoing payment. However, grievances remain among writers and literary organizations, who were blindsided by the cancellation and left grappling with financial losses.
Amidst these challenges, the revival of the Asian American Literature Festival signifies a reclamation of cultural space and an affirmation of the resilience and vibrancy of Asian American voices in literature.
Organizers herald the new approach as a gateway to greater inclusivity, aiming to broaden participation in the festivities across diverse communities.
In conclusion, the revival of the Asian American Literature Festival stands not only as a celebration of literary expression but also as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Asian American community. With a renewed commitment to inclusivity and independence, this iteration promises to amplify voices, foster connections, and spark vital conversations that resonate far beyond its scheduled events. As the festival reclaims its place on the cultural landscape, it embodies the spirit of empowerment and solidarity, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
