Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora has been named a finalist for a 2022 Firecracker Award for Independently Published Literature from the Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP).
The Obsidian platform is nominated in the category of general excellence alongside The American Poetry Review, Bellevue Literary Review, Chicago Review, and The Evergreen Review. The winner will be named at a virtual ceremony on June 23.
“The live ceremony is a recognition of the books and literary magazines that make a significant contribution to literary culture and the publishers who strive to introduce important voices to readers far and wide,” said Chelsea Oei Kern of CLMP.
“We are honored to be among these wonderful publications as a finalist and look forward to continuing the important work of supporting writers and artists globally,” said Obsidian Editor Duriel E. Harris.
Founded nearly 50 years ago, the international journal Obsidian began as a print publication to provide a space for writers in the African Diaspora and the evolution of the literary ecosystem of Black voices. Finding a home at Illinois State University in 2015, the publication has evolved under the leadership of Harris into a publishing platform that includes the journal, online gallery, web features, programs, and more.
Obsidian is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts and has been recognized for editorial achievement by the Council of Editors of Learned Journals and the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Find more information on Obsidian: Literature & Arts in the African Diaspora.
CLMP works to ensure a vibrant, diverse literary landscape by helping mission-driven independent literary magazines and presses to thrive. Find more on the Firecracker Awards.
