Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the National Black Writers Conference

Here are just a few FAQs. Click the question below and the answer will pop up. If you're looking for an answer that you don't see here, please email us at info@centerforblackliterature.org.

How can I become a presenter or panelist for the Conference?

In general, panelists and honorees are selected by a committee that includes writers and other qualified individuals who represent the genres and subject matter presented. All recommendations for potential panelists or presenters are reviewed by the committee for consideration.

Do I have to be a professional writer or a person of color to attend?

No, not at all. The conference is a gathering of the general public, writers, scholars, teachers, students, and literary professionals. All programs of the Center for Black Literature, including the National Black Writers Conference, are open to all.

How often is the National Black Writers Conference (NBWC)?
  1. The four-day Conference is every even year, i.e. 2018, 2020, 2022, 2024, and so on. Typically, the four-day gathering takes place during the last full weekend in March.
  2. The Biennial Symposium is typically for one day only and that normally takes place on the last Saturday in March in the odd years (2019, 2021, 2023, etc.). The Biennial Symposium date(s) may be influenced by the Easter / Spring break.
How does one register for NBWC?

Register online for the Conference.

Kindly call us at (718) 804-8884 or emailing us at info@centerforblackliterature.org with any questions.

Can students register individually or as a group?

A student can register individually or as a part of a student group. Valid ID will be required upon registration.

Medgar Evers College and other CUNY students do not have to pay to attend most Conference activities (although, a nominal fee might apply for Talkshops or fundraising events).

The Youth Day programs are generally free for tri-state area elementary, middle, and high schools students. Youth programming is generally for 3rd grade – 12th grade students.

School administrators and teachers: To find out how your class can participate in “Youth Day” activities, please contact us at (718) 804-8884. You may also send an email to info@centerforblackliterature.org.

Can individual students register for talkshops?

Only during the multi-day conference can students (of high school age and older) register for these workshops. For more information, please send an email to info@centerforblackliterature.org or call the CBL main office at (718) 804-8884.

What is the minimum age requirement for seniors/elders to register?

62 years of age (with a valid ID card).

When can I register?

NBWC2025, March 27 – March 29, 2025, registration is open now.  Information and deadlines are posted on the Center's website and via CBL's Eventbrite Registration Page.

Are the Conference sites handicap accessible?

Conference activities and the partner events are held at New York City venues that are accessible for individuals with disabilities. 

Do NBWC vendors have to pay to attend the Conference?

No. If you are selected to be an official vendor for the Conference, you do not have to pay a registration fee to attend the Conference. For more information, please contact info@centerforblackliterature.org.

Is the VIP Reception donation different than the Conference donation?

Yes. These events are separate. Paying for the Conference does not grant one access to the VIP reception.

Are the “talkshops” a separate donation from the Conference admission?

Yes. “Talkshops” are ticketed events that are separate from the other Conference activities.

If I volunteer, can I attend the Conference?

Volunteers who donate a minimum of two hours per day of the Conference may attend select ticketed events at no cost. For more information, please contact info@centerforblackliterature.org.

Contact Us

Center for Black Literature (CBL)
at Medgar Evers College, CUNY
1534 Bedford Avenue | 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, New York 11216
(Click HERE for the Postal Mailing Address)

Main Phone: (718) 804-8884
Main Office: info@centerforblackliterature.org

Donate to CBL Today!

To carry out our literary programs and special events, we depend on financial support from the public. Donations are welcome year-round. Please click HERE to donate. Thank you!

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