Analyzing Purpose in a Literary Speech

Examine the following excerpt from a speech delivered by a well-respected author at a literary festival:

'Literature has the power to transcend boundaries, to unify voices that might otherwise remain unheard. In a world divided by ideologies and perspectives, the role of the writer is not merely to entertain but to provoke thought and inspire change. In today’s society, where information is at our fingertips, a deeper understanding of our narratives is essential. As we gather here, let us remember that our stories shape our realities and that we, as creators and consumers of literature, have the power to influence the discourse of our times.'

Based on this context, what might be the primary purpose of this speech?