Navigating the Shifting Sands of Publishing in a Climate of Erasure

At Obsidian Skull Press, we believe in the power of stories to shape our understanding of the world and to connect us to one another. We are storytellers, book creators, and community builders. However, we are keenly aware of a growing tension in the publishing landscape, a tension fueled by recent federal directives that seek to limit and even erase certain identities and cultural narratives. These actions, aimed at banning terms like "Latinx," "LGBTQIA," "cultural heritage," "female," and "Hispanic," send a chilling message, threatening the very fabric of belonging we strive to weave through our work.

While some publishers are thankfully reinforcing their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), a climate of apprehension is undeniably permeating the industry. This climate impacts everything from acquisition meetings and literary events to school and library purchases, and ultimately, bookstore orders. Many creators, particularly those from marginalized communities, are left wondering: How will this affect the publishing ecosystem? What are the implications for my chances of being published? How do we stay true to ourselves in the face of such challenges?

These are critical questions that demand honest exploration and proactive responses. The rise in censorship and book bans disproportionately impacts stories representing marginalized voices, contributing to a landscape of exclusion (American Library Association, 2023). This not only limits access to diverse perspectives for readers but also creates significant barriers for authors seeking to share their lived experiences and cultural heritage.

How Can We Meet the Moment?

At Obsidian Skull Press, we believe in the resilience of storytelling and the power of community. Here are some ways we can navigate this challenging landscape:

• Amplify Marginalized Voices: We must actively seek out and champion stories that reflect the rich tapestry of human experience, particularly those that are being targeted by censorship efforts. We must prioritize publishing works that celebrate diverse identities, cultural heritage, and experiences, resisting the pressure to conform to narrow, homogenous narratives.

• Support Independent Presses and Bookstores: Independent presses and bookstores often provide a haven for marginalized voices and offer a counterbalance to mainstream publishing trends. By supporting these outlets, we can help ensure that diverse stories continue to be told and accessible to readers (Greco et al., 2014).

• Advocate for Intellectual Freedom: We must actively defend the right to read and the right to write. This includes speaking out against censorship efforts, supporting organizations that advocate for intellectual freedom, and engaging in conversations with our communities about the importance of diverse perspectives.

• Build Community: Collaboration is crucial. Connecting with other writers, artists, and activists can provide support, inspiration, and a platform to collectively challenge censorship and promote inclusive storytelling.

• Stay True to Our Art: Above all, we must continue to create authentic, powerful stories that reflect our experiences and perspectives. Resist the temptation to self-censor or compromise our artistic vision in response to external pressures.

The current climate presents a significant challenge to the publishing industry and to the very notion of diversity and inclusion. However, by embracing our role as storytellers, amplifying marginalized voices, and advocating for intellectual freedom, we can navigate these shifting sands and ensure that all stories have the opportunity to be told. At Obsidian Skull Press, we remain committed to this mission, and we invite you to join us in building a more inclusive and equitable publishing landscape.

References

American Library Association. (2023). State of America's libraries 2023: A report from the American Library Association. https://www.ala.org/advocacy/state-americas-libraries-report-2023

Greco, A. N., Rodriguez, C. E., & Wharton, R. M. (2014). The book publishing industry (4th ed.). Routledge.

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