Avery Haynes
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Anaridia Molina
Research Mentor School/College/Department: English Language and Literature / LSA
Program:
Authors: Avery Haynes, Anaridia Molina
Session: Session 1: 9:00 am – 9:50 am
Poster: 29
Abstract
The Association of Caribbean Women Writers and Scholars (ACWWS) was founded to promote the creative and critical works of Caribbean women writers, addressing their lack of substantial support and visibility. Through the ACWWS, the works of these writers were made visible via conferences, workshops, and other forums. The Association emerged as a critical platform dedicated to amplifying the literary works of Caribbean women, confronting their struggles, and supporting the amplification of writers’ literary circles. Throughout my UROP research experience, I had the opportunity to support the development of the ACWWS’ Digital Archive—a website showcasing the Association’s institutional history to researchers, teachers, and students. The impact of the ACWWS’ Digital Archive has succeeded in cultivating the preservation and the overall celebration of Caribbean women’s literary lineage and prowess. Authors such as Opal Palmer Adisa contributed to the organization via executive roles, presenting her creative works at conferences and editing the Association’s journal, MaComère. This UROP project intends to explore themes of feminism and sexual expression in the works of Opal Palmer Adisa alongside her involvement with the ACWWS. It will demonstrate how she utilizes this sisterhood to strengthen her work and bring attention to the gender struggles experienced by Caribbean women.
