As we come to the close of Black History Month, we want to not only acknowledge but to celebrate the achievements and contributions made by Black people throughout history. Although Black history isn't only important in the month of February, this gives us an opportunity to put a spotlight on the achievements of Black authors and the significance of their stories to and within our community. Earlier this month, we announced our 2023 Lee Lynch Award winner, Home Girls: A Black Feminist Anthology. This groundbreaking work by feminist and lesbian activists has become an essential text on Black women’s lives and writings. The anthology was edited by Barbara Smith, an American lesbian writer and scholar, who has played a significant role in advancing Black feminism in the United States. She co-founded both the Combahee River Collective and Kitchen Table: Women of Color Press.
Edited by Barbara Smith
Contributors - Tania Abdulahad, Donna Allegra, Barbara A. Banks, Becky Birtha, Julie Carter, Cenen, Cheryl Clarke, Michelle Cliff, Michelle T. Clinton, Willie M. Coleman, Toi Derricotte, Alexis De Veaux, Jewelle L. Gomez, Akasha (Gloria) Hull, Patricia Jones, June Jordan, Audre Lorde, Raymina Y. Mays, Deidre McCalla, Chirlane McCray, Pat Parker, Linda C. Powell, Bernice Johnson Reagon, Spring Redd, Gwendolyn Rogers, Kate Rushin, Ann Allen Shockley, Barbara Smith, Beverly Smith, Shirley O. Steele, Luisah Teish, Jameelah Waheed, Alice Walker, and Renita Weems.
Here are some more Black authors and their works for you to explore: If you haven’t already, consider adding some of these books to your TBR…and suggest some of your favorites!