WA Poets Inc recognises that many of our members are deeply distressed and affected, directly and indirectly, by the violence and displacement experienced by many people. We share the deep sorrow that many writers, artists and journalists are among those civilians arrested, targeted, injured and killed in areas of conflict and suppression.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right and a principle that underpins our literature. Australian poets should be free to express themselves: to show solidarity, sign open letters and petitions, and to do their work without fear of professional or personal repercussions.
Poets are critically important in difficult times. They shed light, provide nuance, give expression to emotion, and build empathy. All poets have the right to safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces and platforms, and to participate in the free exchange of ideas in events and publishing, free of prejudice or pressure.
WA Poets Inc deplores any attempt to exclude poets, writers and illustrators from publishing opportunities, bookshops, or events because of who they are or the stories and images they’ve created, to intimidate them, or to affect their employment status, income or funding.
WAPoets Inc will continue to support Australian poets to pursue their creative work and their careers, and commits to ensuring these principles are applied to our programming and activities.