Juneteenth small press roundup

As the United States celebrates Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, we take a moment to highlight the incredible work of small presses that are dedicated to amplifying Black voices and stories. These independent publishers are committed to providing a platform for underrepresented authors, artists, and perspectives, and their contributions to the literary landscape are invaluable.

In this roundup, we’ll showcase a selection of small presses that are making a significant impact in the publishing industry, and highlight some of their notable titles and authors. From poetry and fiction to nonfiction and graphic novels, these presses are pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a publisher, and we’re excited to share their work with you.

1. Third World Press

Founded in 1967, Third World Press is one of the oldest and most respected independent publishers of Black literature in the United States. With a catalog that spans over 50 years, they’ve published works by legendary authors such as Gwendolyn Brooks, Amiri Baraka, and Sonia Sanchez. Their recent titles include “The BreakBeat Poets: New American Poetry in the Age of Hip-Hop” and “The Collected Works of Langston Hughes, Vol. 1”.

2. Akashic Books

Akashic Books is a Brooklyn-based press that’s been a champion of diverse voices since 1997. Their catalog includes works by authors such as Dennis Lehane, Joe Meno, and Bernice L. McFadden. Their recent titles include “The Beast Side: Living (and Dying) While Black in America” and “The Chalk Circle: Intercultural Prizewinning Essays”.

3. Agate Publishing

Agate Publishing is a Chicago-based press that’s dedicated to publishing books that celebrate Black culture and experiences. Their catalog includes works by authors such as Pearl Cleage, Tananarive Due, and Bernice McFadden. Their recent titles include “In Search of the Color Purple: The Story of an American Masterpiece” and “The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross”.

4. Rosarium Publishing

Rosarium Publishing is a small press based in Maryland that’s dedicated to publishing speculative fiction, comics, and graphic novels by authors of color. Their catalog includes works by authors such as Nnedi Okorafor, Tananarive Due, and Milton Davis. Their recent titles include “The Goodbye Town” and “APB: Artists against Police Brutality”.

5. Button Poetry

Button Poetry is a Minneapolis-based press that’s dedicated to publishing poetry and spoken word by authors of color. Their catalog includes works by authors such as Danez Smith, Alysia Harris, and Hieu Minh Nguyen. Their recent titles include “Homie” and “Don’t Call Us Dead”.

These small presses are just a few examples of the incredible work being done to amplify Black voices and stories in the publishing industry. As we celebrate Juneteenth, we’re reminded of the importance of freedom, equality, and representation. These presses are helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse literary landscape, and we’re honored to highlight their work.

So take some time to explore these presses, and discover the incredible authors and titles they have to offer. Let’s continue to celebrate and support the work of these small presses, and the important role they play in shaping our literary culture. Happy Juneteenth!