Dear Philadelphia Stories Members & Friends,
As one of the many voices of this great city, Philadelphia Stories stands in solidarity with those in our community who’ve expressed their anger and sorrow about the continued violence committed against Black people and communities of color. Now is the time to end systemic racism in our country.
As part of our mission to cultivate a community of writers, artists, and readers in the Greater Philadelphia Area, we believe that literature has the power to effect change. Philadelphia Stories celebrates all voices through stories, poems, essays, and artwork, and we encourage other publications to offer equal access to make sure all voices are heard.
For 15 years, Philadelphia Stories has offered a story-telling platform that highlights the work of our vibrant, diverse community through its free magazine. But there is still work to be done in the literary community. Black writers and writers of color deserve to be heard on an equal footing and take their rightful place in the ever changing literary landscape. Literature and art have the power to inform, entertain, and change minds. Looking at the world through someone else’s eyes empowers us all. We invite you to share in that conversation by supporting writers of color by seeking out their work and buying their books.
We encourage you to explore this reading list of books from our friends at the Council for Literary Magazines and Presses. These titles speak to social justice, activism, police brutality, and human rights. CLMP also shared this list of Black-owned bookstores where you can purchase these titles and share them with your friends, families, and communities.
Philadelphia Stories will continue to stand with our community as we strive for justice and equality through the power of words.
Change will come when we all work together to end injustice.
–Philadelphia Stories Editors and Board Members