IndUS hosts writing conference in Menasha
By Amber Bybee
IndUS of the Fox Valley and UW-Fox Valley held Finding One's Voice: A Conference of South Asian Writers at the Menasha campus Sept. 21-22.
IndUS of Fox Valley promotes Indo-American friendship through social, cultural, educational and charitable activities.
"There is so much about Indian literature and culture that we can share," Sameer Srihdar, the of the conference organizers, said.
Sixteen poems written in South Asia regional languages were recited.
Although IndUS has hosted dance programs and concerts, this was their first literary event.
Attendees had a chance to interact with published authors who are natives of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Wisconsin poet laureate Bruce Dethlefsen and Fox Valley poet also led sessions.
Day 1 of the conference consisted of memoir and poetry writing workshops. Memoirist Kirin Narayan led one session and Mills facilitated a poetry workshop.
"I think each form [of writing] has its own shape and it calls you because that's the shape it needs for what it is you're going to say," Mills said.
"I never miss a workshop of Laurel's unless I am on my deathbed or out of town," Mandi Isaacson, a resident from Appleton, said.
The second day was divided into three sessions. In the first a panel of four authors discussed how they found their voice.
In the second, they shared some of their works. Participants were then invited to ask questions during the final session.
The two-day event was free and open to the public.
More information about IndUS and upcoming events can be found at www.indusfoxvalley.org/.