Your gift for Obsidian makes an impact beyond Illinois State!
As the world contends with accelerated and turbulent changes, social uprising against institutionalized racism and systemic marginalization, and the economic, emotional, physical, and psychosocial effects of the COVID pandemic, people have begun to consider where they can make a difference.
For the creators of Obsidian, such challenges are not new
experiences, which is why we are led to provide emerging Black writers and
artists an environment that understands their voice and values their
contribution to the arts and society.
Obsidian is grounded in the reality that few Black writers have access to editorial relationships that are fundamental for growth and further recognizes the detrimental effect of Black writers’ limited access to advocacy and mentoring.
We are also aware that publishing gatekeepers and
decision makers are predominantly white: 76% of staff are white, while only 5%
are Black. Obsidian serves as an agent for communities of underrepresented and
marginalized writers and artists by providing a critically needed publishing
platform. And part of our commitment includes bringing forth young
professionals ready to enter the publishing field as editors, authors,
designers—people who understand the necessary work of supporting the evolution
of Black writers and artists and the literary ecosystem of Black voices.
The Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora
Fund was established to provide financial support associated with the journal
and publishing platform and for students' professional development through
their involvement with Obsidian’s editorial and production work.
Housed in ISU’s English Department Publications Unit,
Obsidian is a small but vibrant operation able to engage students in all stages
of publishing work, from editing and proofreading to promotions and marketing
campaigns—investing in our commitment to the representation and cultivation of
Black artists. Obsidian is often writers’ first editorial relationship, which
is why it’s important that we continue to support and uplift the unique ways
writers and artists record, respond, and connect to our world and invite
students into the process of doing this work.
It’s because of the generosity of Redbird donors that
Obsidian is able to offer this professional mentorship and experience to
students as editorial assistants. When societal hegemony insists “nothing
different, nothing better is possible,” your donation to the Obsidian:
Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora Fund allows us to offer a new
path forward.