The Kitchen Table: Women of Color Press is a groundbreaking publishing company that was founded in 1980 by poets George Ella Lyon and Penny Kittle. The press was created with the purpose of amplifying the voices of women of color in literature and providing a platform for their stories to be heard. For over 40 years, Kitchen Table has been a vital force in the literary world, publishing works that challenge and inspire readers.The Kitchen Table: Women of Color Press
George Ella Lyon and Penny Kittle are both renowned poets and educators who shared a vision of creating a space for women of color to share their stories. Lyon, who is white, and Kittle, who is Native American, recognized the lack of representation for women of color in the literary world and decided to take action. They founded Kitchen Table with the belief that storytelling is a powerful tool for social change and that everyone deserves to have their voice heard.The Founders
Kitchen Table's mission is to publish works by and about women of color, with a focus on promoting social justice and diversity in literature. The press is dedicated to providing a platform for marginalized voices and promoting a more inclusive and equitable literary landscape. Through their publications, Kitchen Table aims to challenge and dismantle systems of oppression and celebrate the diversity of experiences within communities of color.The Mission
Over the years, Kitchen Table has published numerous groundbreaking works by women of color, including poetry collections, novels, and anthologies. Some notable titles include "Sisterfire: Black Womanist Fiction and Poetry," "Home Girls: A Black Feminist Anthology," and "This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color." These works have had a significant impact on the feminist and literary movements, and many are considered essential reading for anyone interested in social justice and diversity.Notable Works
Kitchen Table's impact on literature cannot be overstated. The press has played a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusion in the literary world and has given a voice to women of color who have been historically marginalized and silenced. Through their publications, Kitchen Table has challenged traditional notions of what literature should be and opened the doors for more diverse voices to be heard. Their contributions have paved the way for future generations of writers of color to share their stories and make a lasting impact on the literary landscape.Impact on Literature
Although George Ella Lyon and Penny Kittle have since retired from Kitchen Table, the press continues to thrive under the leadership of a new generation of editors. Kitchen Table's commitment to publishing works by and about women of color remains unwavering, and the press continues to push boundaries and promote social change through literature. With over 40 years of groundbreaking publications behind them, Kitchen Table's legacy continues to inspire and empower women of color in the literary world and beyond.The Legacy Continues
The Kitchen Table: Women of Color Press is a shining example of the power of literature to promote social justice and diversity. Through their publications, the press has given a voice to women of color and challenged traditional notions of what literature should be. Their legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations of writers, and their impact on the literary world will be felt for years to come.In Conclusion