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WIT 2025 Literary Festival Brings Together Marilynne Robinson, M. Gessen, Hanif Abdurraqib, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, and More for Urgent Conversations on Authors & Activism

Guild News Literary Culture

July 31, 2025

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LENOX, MA – July 31, 2025 – The WIT Literary Festival, presented by the Authors Guild Foundation, returns September 25–28 with a powerhouse lineup of writers, thinkers, and advocates exploring this year’s theme, “The Power of Words: Authors & Activism.”

Set in the Berkshires, the 2025 festival features four days of timely conversations on the role of literature in defending democracy, confronting authoritarianism, advancing justice, and uplifting the human spirit. 

Featured speakers include: 

• Marilynne Robinson and Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde on faith and literature 
• M. Gessen and Michael S. Roth on threats to free expression and higher education 
• Hanif Abdurraqib and Imani Perry on music and social justice 
• Torrey Peters and Chase Strangio on trans rights and storytelling 
• Catherine Coleman Flowers and Peter Hotez on public health and environmental justice 
• Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and Sanaz Toossi on performance, history, and representation 
• James Lawler and Tim Weiner on intelligence, security, and the shifting global order 

“All of these conversations speak to the urgency of this moment,” said Deborah K. Wilson, Executive Director of the Authors Guild Foundation. “WIT is where literature meets action—and where we imagine a better future.” 

Tickets & Access

Public ticket sales begin July 31. All sessions will be livestreamed.

Visit authorsguildfoundation.org/witfestival for tickets, schedule, and livestream access.

Media Contact: ralbu@authorsguild.org
Sponsorships: bschwartz@authorsguildfoundation.org