Orature’s Mission
Our Why:
Our Goal:
Orature is dedicated to empowering and uniting Black women and non-binary sci-fi/fantasy authors in an inclusive community. Our mission is to build a safe space that cultivates rich narratives, redefines speculative fiction, provides valuable resources, amplifies diverse voices in storytelling, and supports writers in completing their projects
Orature is committed to supporting Black women/non-binary authors in achieving their writing goals. Our Writing Milestones Initiative aims to help 5,000 authors reach significant milestones in their writing journey, whether it's completing their first draft, polishing their manuscript, or preparing for publication. Through workshops, resources, and personalized support, we empower authors to tell their stories authentically and passionately. Join us in this initiative and take the next step toward realizing your writing dreams.
In the literary world, Black voices, especially in the science fiction and fantasy genres, are underrepresented. While there has been a 20% increase in the number of Black authors since 2014, this growth is not reflected in the overall US workforce, where African-Americans make up 12%, compared to only 6.28% of US authors being Black. This disparity underscores the need for platforms like Orature.
Black female authors, who account for 71.67% of all Black authors for children’s and YA picture books, continue to face challenges. They often find themselves isolated at predominately white conferences and workshops, where cultural barriers and racial biases can hinder their experience. These challenges highlight the need for specialized spaces where feedback aligns with their intended audience.
Orature envisions a future where Black authors find a lasting home—a community that remains steadfast, providing accountability, encouragement, and the essential push needed to complete the journey from the first draft to the final chapter. Traditional conferences and workshops offer brief glimpses into the craft, providing valuable insights but often leaving authors wanting more. Orature steps in as a beacon, offering more than sporadic workshops. We are committed to providing long-term support, empowering Black women and non-binary authors in the sci-fi/fantasy genre to tell their stories authentically and passionately.
By uniting Black authors and amplifying their voices, Orature aims to redefine speculative fiction, cultivate rich narratives, and provide valuable resources to support writers in completing their projects. Join us in this transformative journey, where your voice matters and your stories deserve to be told.
"In order to rise from its own ashes, a Phoenix first must burn." - Octavia E. Butler