The next Mosaic Literary Conference draws its creative and intellectual inspiration from Kleaver Cruz’s The Black Joy Project, centering joy not as an afterthought but as a deliberate, radical framework for storytelling, cultural expression, and community building. This year’s gathering will explore how narratives of Black joy can serve as both resistance and renewal—expanding conversations around identity, creativity, and liberation while inviting writers, artists, and thinkers to engage joy as a critical force in shaping literary and cultural futures.

Saturday, 11/21/26 • Lehman College

ABOUT MLC

The Mosaic Literary Conference fosters a collaborative space for individuals interested in literature, education, and the arts. MLC plays a crucial role in promoting creative thinking and knowledge sharing within the community. By inviting educators, community and arts organizations, as well as the general public, the conference facilitates a diverse and inclusive exchange of ideas.

PAST
CONFERENCES

MLC creates a space where literature, education, and the arts intersect. Past conferences have examined the legacy of James Baldwin, queer identity, and Audre Lorde, and sparked dialogue on pressing social and cultural issues.

MOSAIC
LITERARY
MAGAZINE

Inspired by the annual conference, Mosaic is a print and virtual publication showcasing the work of writers of African and Latinx descent.