Writing Through Conflict makes space for reflection

“This is so interesting because we need something in reverse,” says Gemma Sala, associate professor of political science, setting the stage for Grinnell College’s new Writing Through Conflict group. The group offers a quiet space for students and faculty to explore personal and political challenges through writing.

Sala said that the idea emerged this semester after she read an article by a Turkish scholar from Johns Hopkins University, who had observed how a series of political and environmental disasters were affecting Turkey and formed an online writing group to help colleagues maintain academic focus amid the chaos.

Sala saw an opportunity to reverse that approach — rather than channel energy solely into productivity, she envisioned a forum where participants could freely express the emotions stirred by events at home, from overseas conflicts to local environmental crises. 

The concept took root during a class discussion. “I mentioned the idea of a writing group in class and kept the invitation very open ended,” said Sala. Interest quickly grew when students Kayeon Yoo `27, Addie Persian `27 and Aya Yamaguchi `27 expressed their support. Their enthusiasm led to the organization of the group with assistance from the Peace and Conflict Studies department.

The motivations behind Writing Through Conflict are deeply personal. Yoo, one of the student organizers, said that her interest was sparked not only by her love of writing in multiple languages but also by personal hardships in her home country, South Korea. She explained that the challenges she faced made her realize many students might be struggling silently.

“I was drawn to the club because of my own experiences and because I knew other students were facing similar issues,” Yoo said.

For many students, especially those far from their home countries, campus life can feel detached from the crises that shape their lives elsewhere. Yamaguchi said, “Grinnell is in a rural area, and sometimes the political events back home feel so distant. This group gives us the time and space to reflect on our own experiences and on events that matter to us.”

Persian said that the opportunity to write without the pressure of grades is refreshing. “I take a lot of classes that involve a lot of writing, so it is refreshing to write for myself without judgment,” she said. “Even though we’re living in current events, it’s surprisingly easy to feel out of touch. Writing Through Conflict gives us a chance to consider what’s happening, how it affects us and how we process it all.”

Meetings take place every Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room N1168 of the Humanities and Social Sciences Center (HSSC). Students drop in, pick up a journal provided by the Peace and Conflict Studies department and spend about 30 to 45 minutes writing or drawing. Snacks and tea are available. Around the 45-minute mark, participants are invited to share their work if they wish, though there is no requirement to do so.

Photo of journals students use in the Writing Through Conflict group on Thursday, Feb. 20. (Chhay Chhom)

Sala emphasized that the group is meant to complement rather than replace traditional forms of institutional outreach. “We are not here to provide a program with requirements,” she said. “We are simply providing a space where you can pause and reflect. Even if you only come once, the experience might give you a moment of connection that you did not know you needed.” 

There are no assigned topics or prompts at Writing Through Conflict unless requested, allowing attendees to focus on conflicts that are personal, global or internal.

For those who hesitate to join, the organizers offer a simple invitation. “If you feel like you need a quiet place to think and write, just come by,” Sala said. “You are welcome to drop in even if you are not sure if you want to share anything. The point is to have a space where you can feel supported, even if you are only there for a short time.”

Grinnell College students interested in exploring their experiences through writing are encouraged to join the next session in room N1168 of the HSSC. With its flexible format and open invitation, Writing Through Conflict continues to grow as a quiet movement toward collective reflection and community care.