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BLACK CANADIAN PUBLISHING
Highlighting research, articles, and resources about Black Canadians in publishing; bringing writing, scholarship, and industry perspectives together that explore the contributions, experiences, and impact of Black professionals across Canada’s literary and publishing landscape.
By gathering these resources in one place, this collection aims to people, histories, and conversations that have shaped Black publishing pathways in Canada visible. It recognizes the important role of Black editors, publishers, writers, booksellers, literary organizers, and other publishing professionals whose work has contributed to a more diverse and inclusive literary ecosystem.
This archive will continue to grow as new research, interviews, industry discussions, and historical resources are identified. Over time, it can serve as a living resource that documents the evolving experiences and contributions of Black professionals within Canadian publishing.
WE'RE BUILDING A DIRECTORY
Literature is a vibrant and essential part of Canada’s cultural landscape, shaped by the voices, expertise, and creativity of writers and publishing professionals. This space will gather resources and highlight Black Canadians in publishing, including:
- agents
- authors
- booksellers
- critics and scholars
- editors
- illustrators and designers
- marketers
- organizations
- publishers
and others who are contributing to and strengthening Black Canadian literature and publishing.
KONNECTION NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter, a resource for writers, readers, and book lovers. Each edition features industry insights, event listings, networking opportunities, new book releases, and curated links to articles, research, and other helpful resources.
SELECTED ARTICLES & INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVES
“Black Press in Canada”
Publication: African Canadian Online — York University
Date: Ongoing digital resource
Link: https://www.yorku.ca/aconline/l_press.html
This historical resource traces the development of Black newspapers and print publications in Canada, highlighting the longstanding role of Black-led publishing initiatives in documenting community histories and creating platforms for Black voices.
"'Paper Underground’ Tells the Story of Black Self-Publishing in Canada"
Publication: Queen's Journal
Date: 2026
Link: https://www.queensjournal.ca/paper-underground-tells-the-story-of-black-self-publishing-in-canada/
Overview: New exhibition at the W.D. Jordan Library spotlights Black authors who fought to put their work on the shelves
"Uncovering the History of Black Self-Publishing in Canada"
Publication: Queen's Gazette
Date: 2024
Link: https://www.queensu.ca/gazette/stories/uncovering-history-black-self-publishing-canada
Overview: Kristin Moriah receives a national fellowship to study Black authors and themes that motivated them to write and publish their own works over the past century.
“Diversity in Publishing Is the Way Forward”
Publication: Quill & Quire
Author: Sarah Raughley
Date: 2022
Link: https://quillandquire.com/authors/diversity-in-publishing-is-the-way-forward/
Overview: Sarah Raughley reflects on the need for meaningful diversity and inclusion within publishing, discussing systemic barriers and the importance of long-term change within the Canadian literary industry.
“Black Canadians in the Canadian Journal of Communication: A Critical Reading of Language and Voice"
Publication: Canadian Journal of Communication
Author: Cheryl Thompson
Date: 2022
Link: https://www.cjc-online.ca/index.php/journal/article/view/4237
Overview: This scholarly article examines representation, voice, and institutional publishing practices through a critical analysis of Black Canadian presence within academic publishing.
“Black Writers Matter: An Anthology of Black Canadian Literature”
Publication: Quill & Quire
Date: 2021
Link: https://quillandquire.com/omni/in-conversation-whitney-french-and-makeda-silvera-on-black-writers-matter/
Overview: This coverage explores the development of Black Writers Matter, a major anthology project that foregrounds Black Canadian literary voices and highlights the role of editors and publishers in shaping literary history.
"On Fighting For Space in the Literary World as a Black Canadian Writer"
Publication: Lit Hub
Date: 2021
Link: https://lithub.com/on-fighting-for-space-in-the-literary-world-as-a-black-canadian-writer/
Overview: Cheryl Thompson’s article discusses her experiences as a Black Canadian writer working to find space and recognition in the literary world. She reflects on the challenges of representation and shares how Toni Morrison’s wisdom and writing inspired her to continue telling meaningful Black stories.
“80 Years of Q&Q: Talking with The Great Black North Editors"
Publication: Quill & Quire
Date: 2015
Link: https://quillandquire.com/book-culture/2015/03/18/80-years-of-qq-talking-with-the-great-black-north-editors-valerie-mason-john-and-kevan-anthony-cameron/
Overview: This interview with the editors of The Great Black North: Contemporary African Canadian Poetry explores the editorial process behind a landmark anthology and the importance of creating publishing spaces for Black Canadian writers.
FOR YOUR REFERENCE: TYPES OF PUBLISHING
Traditional Publishing
Independent and Small Press
Independent and Small Press
Traditional publishing is closely tied to established publishing houses that are a dominant force in the industry, with the infrastructure and resources to produce a wide range of books. Securing a contract typically involves working with a literary agent, going through a submission process, and receiving editorial support along with wider distribution.
Independent and Small Press
Independent and Small Press
Independent and Small Press
Independent presses often focus on specific genres or niche markets. They typically offer more personalized attention, allowing authors greater creative control, along with faster timelines, a more hands-on publishing experience, and targeted exposure.
Self-Publishing
Independent and Small Press
Hybrid Publishing
Self-publishing allows authors to control their creative journey, publish independently, and bypass traditional gatekeepers. It offers flexibility, higher royalty rates, and control over the publishing schedule, though editing, design, and other services must be handled by the author.
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid publishing combines the resources and expertise of a publishing house with the author’s financial investment and greater creative control. These publishers maintain quality standards while offering professional editing, design, and marketing services.
e-Books
Hybrid Publishing
Audiobooks
Ebook publishing offers convenient and instant access to a wide range of titles through digital platforms. It allows readers to download and read books anytime on devices like e-readers, tablets, and smartphones, making books more portable and easily accessible.
Audiobooks
Hybrid Publishing
Audiobooks
Audiobooks provide immersive storytelling through narrated performances while also offering convenient access for listeners on the go. They allow people to enjoy books while commuting, exercising, or doing other tasks, making reading more flexible and accessible.