| Dear Litquake Family, The staff of Litquake extend our support and compassion to everyone impacted by ongoing acts of racism in our community and around the world. We are horrified at the racist killing of George Floyd and the many, many people who have suffered at the hands of law enforcement or by any racist violence—the list is too long. The loss is incalculable, extending as far back as American history goes and well beyond. These continue to be inconceivable times with one tragedy folded into another. As COVID-19 guts life as we know it, we recognize the heartbreak in our community, and doubly so for the communities of color who are disproportionately affected by the disease—yet another clear sign of systemic racism at its vicious work. As an organization and as individuals, we wonder how we can exercise our power and privilege to lift up those in need. First and foremost, we ask our community to join us in actively fighting racism, both internally and externally, in your person and in your world. Litquake denounces white supremacy in all its forms, while we also recognize the many ways in which we have benefited from the racist structures that define our country, our city, and our industry—the promotion of literature and the publishing industry continue to be defined by exclusivity and are dominated by white voices. We commit ourselves always to evolve further as an equitable, inclusive organization that works tirelessly for our community, particularly our communities of color, and their various inflections, identities, and modes of expression. Guided by our mission and values, we vow to never flag in this necessary work. Join us in active solidarity with the victims, the protestors, and all those who fight for justice. Black Lives Matter We know we have a long way to go, but we will do all we can to make a just, equitable future for all.
The Litquake Staff
Jack Boulware, Jane Ganahl, Graham Todd, Amy Kaminer, Hunter Thomas | 