Two Liberian Authors Lead the Charge Toward a New Era of Literary Excellence
A bold literary revolution aimed at elevating Liberian writers and reshaping the nation contemporary literary identity has begun.
The movement is being championed by two of Liberia’s most distinguished authors: F. Shelton Gonkerwon, and Omari Jackson, who have joined forces under the banner of the Union of Liberian Authors (ULA) to ignite a national awakening in the world of letters.
According to the two literary visionaries, both widely recognized for their contributions to Liberian literature and journalism, the time has come for Liberia to proclaim its rightful place in the global community of writers.
“Liberia must rise up and capture its rightful space in the world of writers,” the two distinguished men declared, adding: “We have written many books; we have the talents and the tools, and we can no longer wait. This revolution will inspire a new generation of poets, storytellers and thinkers who will carry Liberia’s voice to the world.”
ULA is dedicated to ensure that Liberian authors receive the national, and international recognition they deserve, while transforming raw manuscripts into refined literary works that reflect Liberia’s unique voice and vision.
The ULA’s core objectives include:
Uniting all Liberian authors, and fostering collaboration among them; advocating for intellectual property rights, and legal protection for authors; organizing literary festivals, book fairs, workshops and writing competitions; supporting publication and global distribution of Liberian books; engaging government, institutions, and the private sector to advance literary development; creating mentorship programs to nurture young and emerging writers; building partnerships with international literary, as well as cultural organizations, and promoting a culture of reading, and literacy across schools and communities.
With F. Shelton Gonkerwon’s powerful work, Dark Freedom, recently approved by the Ministry of Education (MoE) as a supplementary reader for senior high schools across Liberia, many believe the foundation of this long-awaited literary revolution has already been firmly laid.
The collaboration between Gonkerwon and Jackson represents more than a partnership; it marks the dawn of a new cultural movement that will amplify Liberian voices, preserve national stories, and position Liberian literature on the global stage.