In 1960, the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild (SWG) was formed. It is a provincial, non-profit cultural organization, which represents all levels of Saskatchewan’s writers and helps to promote public awareness.
In addition, it also encourages all ages to become Saskatchewan’s writers and is an avenue to better access Saskatchewan writers and to their work. Memberships are open to all Saskatchewan or Canadian writers.
According to the SWG website, “The SWG aims to create an environment that is inclusive for all writers to develop their craft – from workshops and online courses to mentorships and professional development. The SWG embraces equity and diversity among its members and provides a supportive community that understands what it means to be called a writer."
“The Saskatchewan Writers' Guild exists to help provincial writers have a part in their benefits. But we also have a responsibility to ensure that the quality of writing rises commensurate with Canadian content,” said Ken Mitchell, founding member and chairperson of SWG, as reported by the Leader Post on May 11, 1970.
Mitchell was born and raised in Moose Jaw.
SWG runs several programs including Indigenous Mentorship Programs.
It works with the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Writers Circle In. (SAWCI) and Ânskohk Aboriginal Literature Festival and organize different programs and events for beginner and professional Indigenous writers and audiences.
SWG provides a free writing program to develop Indigenous writers. The SWG Indigenous Mentorship Program is a group of professional writers that support and guide the emerging Indigenous writers in their creative writing with one on one instruction.
It is open for all categories of writing and each participant will receive instruction based on their needs. During the program, the participants and the mentor work together for about 20 hours a month in face-to-face, online, phone, and email conversation.
The aim of the program is “craft development, manuscript preparation, the business of writing and editing.” After completing the program, participants are asked to give a public reading of their work.
The SWG Indigenous Mentorship program will run from Jan. 1 to April 30 in the New Year with a participant reading held in early May. Please note: The deadline for mentor applications is Sept. 15; the deadline for apprentice applications is Oct. 4.
In addition, SWG holds events regarding Indigenous peoples and communities during particular dates such as Truth and Reconciliation Day scheduled for Sept. 30 of each year and National Indigenous Peoples Day held on June 21.
For more information visit skwriter.com or for related Indigenous programs, contact 306-244-0107 or email swgip@skwriter.com.
