In Conversation With Organizers of the Great Lakes African American Writers Conference

The Great Lakes African American Writers Conference (GLAAWC) is the African American literary event of the year! As we gear up for this year’s event, Cleveland Book Fest partners sat down with GLAAWC founder Dr. Leah Lewis, the new Producer Nicole D. Miller, and 2025 host Nikki B to talk about what’s ahead. Keep reading as we count down to GLAAWC 2025!

Why is GLAAWC’s mission important in the current political and cultural climate?

Dr. Leah Lewis, Founder & Executive Producer of GLAAWC (LL): GLAAWC remains a celebration of African American literature in all its constructive forms for the benefit and appreciation of all.

Nicole D. Miller, Producer of GLAAWC (NDM): The Black community has and is being challenged by systemic racism, but those challenges have forged us into a resilient people group. GLAAWC is a key space that demonstrates a main way we have risen above those challenges through our gift of creativity.

Nikki B, GLAAWC 2025 Master of Ceremonies (NB): In a time when diverse voices are too often silenced or erased, GLAAWC ensures that Black writers and thinkers remain centered. It gives us ownership of our narratives and celebrates the creativity and resilience of our community.

What compelled you to get involved with GLAAWC?

NDM: As an author and hybrid book publisher, GLAAWC was appealing because it was the only space I saw in our city that offered tools specifically to Black literary creatives to elevate in their craft.

NB: I was drawn to GLAAWC because of its mission to amplify Black voices and honor the richness of our literary and cultural traditions. Storytelling has always been a way we connect, heal, and preserve history, so being part of a space that uplifts those voices felt like a natural fit for me.

What are you most excited for at GLAAWC this year?

LL: We are bringing new regional partners into the community this year. More to come on this!

NDM: GLAAWC brings hopeful stories that create impact, and I believe many will walk away feeling inspired.

NB: I’m excited to learn about the process of writing and publishing my own story, whether fiction, nonfiction, or biography, and to gain inspiration from authors who have already taken that journey.

Have there been any changes or new ideas to GLAAWC this year?

LL: The library systems in Cuyahoga County have been supportive of GLAAWC in various ways over the years. This year, the Cuyahoga County Public Library has entered the fold in a new and exciting way–partnering with us to bring our Langston Hughes Literary Keynote, Diane McKinney-Whetstone, author of Family Spirit.

NDM: In addition to the instatement of my position as Producer, we’ve added new partners to the mix, such as FutureLand, to expand our audience reach and tap into the literary creatives who are connected to other spaces such as tech, entrepreneurship, and arts & entertainment.

NB: Nicole D. Miller stepping in as Producer is an exciting addition, bringing fresh energy and vision.

Can you share a favorite moment or memory from past GLAAWC events?

LL: Well, I have two. First, I am always heart-struck when the elders turn out for GLAAWC. Over the years I have encountered octogenarians and nonagenarians that made indelible impressions upon me. Second, two of our Langston Hughes Literary Keynote speakers–Tayari Jones and Damon Young–both approached me after their presentations and uttered, verbatim, “Leah, I did not know how much I need this.” “This,” meant the opportunity to be in the presence of an audience that reflects their culture.

NDM: One of the highlights for me was witnessing the legendary Walter Mosely as a key speaker. For an “on-the-rise” author like me, the opportunity to learn from literary legends is priceless.

NB: This is my first year, but being part of GLAAWC means my voice matters, our stories matter, and representation across the diaspora creates lasting impact.

What does it mean to you to be a part of a space that celebrates Black literature and storytelling?

NDM: Everything. GLAAWC perfectly aligns with the mission of my personal brand, which is to educate, empower, and heal the Black community through creativity.

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