Eden Mills Writers’ Festival Cancels AI Workshop, Opens Space for Community Reflection

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

The Eden Mills Writers’ Festival, a beloved literary gathering rooted in community and creativity, has announced the cancellation of a planned workshop titled “Dear AI, Am I Talking to Myself?” following public concern over its framing and intent. Originally conceived as a critical exploration of artificial intelligence’s impact on literature, the session was meant to challenge the logic of automation—not to celebrate AI or suggest it could replace human authors.

In a statement released by the festival board, organizers acknowledged that the communication around the workshop “missed the mark,” and confirmed the removal of the AI voice from the panel. The decision came after receiving feedback from writers, readers, and community members who expressed discomfort and concern about the role of AI in the arts.

In response, the festival is hosting a facilitated listening circle on Friday, September 5, from 1–2 p.m. EDT. This online gathering invites participants to reflect on the grief, anger, and questions that AI technology has surfaced in the literary world. Organizers emphasize that this is not a debate, but a space for honesty, care, and reaffirmation of human creativity. Registration is free via the festival’s website.

“While we are disappointed to lose what we hoped could have been a generative dialogue, we understand that trust must come first,” the statement reads. The Eden Mills Writers’ Festival, which features over 45 Canadian authors this year, remains committed to fostering courageous and complex conversations—with clarity, care, and community at the center.

As the festival prepares to open its doors from September 4–7, organizers are inviting volunteers to help bring the event to life. Whether welcoming guests or supporting authors, volunteers are described as the “living heartbeat” of the festival.

In a time when technology continues to reshape the creative landscape, Eden Mills is choosing to listen first—and write the next chapter together.