Photo by Cindy Elizabeth
Dear Friends,
Welcome to Torch Literary Arts! I founded TORCH in 2006 with the goal of creating a space reserved for Black women writers. I wanted a space where we could share our work and uplift each other at all stages of our literary careers. I wanted to build a place where readers and educators could find contemporary writing that celebrates the creativity of Black women across the diaspora. In our 15-year history, we have published and featured over 100 writers on our website and at our Wildfire Reading Series. In that time, we’ve also learned a lot, especially during the pandemic, about how to preserve and grow the organization to better serve our community.
I’m excited to announce that Torch Literary Arts will officially relaunch in January of 2022! This relaunch comes with a new website, publishing model, programs, and partnerships. Monthly and Friday features will be published year-round, and all contributors will be paid for their work. This is only possible with support from our partners and individual donors like you. Thank you for being on this journey with us and investing in Black women writers. Together, we can amplify these poems and stories across the world and light the way for generations of readers and writers to come.
Onward,
Amanda Johnston
Founder/Executive Director
Torch Literary Arts
TORCH LITERARY ARTS is a nonprofit organization established to publish and promote creative writing by Black women. We publish contemporary writing by experienced and emerging writers alike. TORCH has featured work by Colleen J. McElroy, Tayari Jones, Sharon Bridgforth, Crystal Wilkinson, Patricia Smith, Elizabeth Alexander, Natasha Trethewey, and others. Programs include the Wildfire Reading Series, workshops, and retreats. Subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive future updates and announcements.