No topic off limits at city literature festival

The Bradford Literature Festival is set to return this year starting on June 27, offering a rich program of events across the city for ten days. Founded in 2014 by Syima Aslam and her friend Irna Qureshi, the festival has grown into an important cultural event that welcomes a diverse audience. Syima Aslam, who grew up in Bradford, created the festival with the goal of making literature and cultural discussions accessible to everyone in the city, regardless of their financial situation. This year’s festival will feature a variety of activities including panel discussions, lectures, and workshops, with notable guests such as poet John Cooper Clarke, broadcaster Mishal Husain, and actor Larry Lamb. The festival will cover a wide range of topics, including multiculturalism, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and freedom of expression, reflecting its commitment to open and honest conversations.

Syima Aslam emphasizes that the festival is rooted in books but believes that books can be about anything in the world, so there is no topic that cannot be discussed. She is particularly focused on breaking down financial barriers that often prevent people from attending cultural events. She points out that many families in Bradford face tough choices due to the cost of living, such as whether to buy food or attend cultural activities. The festival works hard to ensure that these barriers do not stop anyone from participating. It operates as a community benefit organization, meaning it exists to serve the public rather than private shareholders. This approach helps keep the festival open and accessible to all, which is a core principle for Syima and the team.

The Bradford Literature Festival is also part of the City of Culture year, making it an even more significant event for the city. The festival’s program will be published soon on its website, offering detailed information about the many events planned. The festival not only celebrates literature but also encourages dialogue on important social and political issues, making it a vital part of Bradford’s cultural life. It invites everyone to join in, learn, and share their views in a welcoming environment.