Mission Statement

The Big Gay Writing Project is a nonprofit organization committed to fostering equitable access to education for adults in the Philadelphia area and beyond. We believe that everyone—regardless of age, background, income, or identity—deserves the opportunity to grow as a writer, thinker, and communicator in a supportive and inclusive environment.

At the heart of our mission is the understanding that adult learners often face unique barriers to continuing education, from time constraints and financial hardship to systemic inequities and a lack of culturally responsive programs. Our work is driven by a commitment to dismantling these barriers and uplifting voices that have historically been marginalized in academic and literary spaces. BGWP was founded by an Appalachian lesbian, which has framed the goal and direction of our organization. Queer people are everywhere, and deserve to be everywhere, we currently offer weekly Zoom sessions to ensure everyone is able to participate in a queer creative space regardless of geographic location. 

Through free writing workshops, community events, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations, we create welcoming spaces where adults can build confidence, refine (or redefine) their craft, and connect with others. 

BGWP is rooted in radical care of the self and of the community. We are strictly a mutual-aid-based organization. 

By centering queer perspectives and embracing a wide range of lived experiences, The Big Gay Writing Project not only empowers individuals - it strengthens communities. We believe in the transformative power of writing and storytelling to foster empathy, challenge injustice, and create a more equitable future one workshop at a time.