A Brief History of Kitchen Table Press

 

A Brief History of Kitchen Table Press

Kitchen Table Press was a pioneering feminist publishing house based in the United States, with a focus on promoting the voices and experiences of women, particularly women of color. Established in the 1980's, the press played a crucial role in expanding the scope of feminist literature and providing a platform for diverse and marginalized voices. Its legacy is marked by its contributions to feminist scholarship, literature, and activism.

Founding and Early Years (1980's)

Kitchen Table Press was founded in 1980 by a collective of feminist activists and scholars, including Barbara Smith, Audre Lorde, and Cheryl Clarke. The press emerged out of the need for a publishing house that could reflect and amplify the voices of women of color and address issues that mainstream feminist publishers often overlooked.

The name "Kitchen Table Press" symbolized the press's commitment to grassroots activism and community-centered publishing, suggesting a space where important conversations and ideas could be shared and nurtured.

The press's first publications focused on feminist theory, politics, and literature, aiming to challenge dominant narratives and provide a platform for voices that were often marginalized.

Home Girls: A Black Feminist Anthology" (1983) was edited by Barbara Smith. This groundbreaking anthology brought together essays, poetry, and fiction by Black feminist writers. It was one of the first comprehensive collections to highlight the experiences and perspectives of Black women within the feminist movement.

The Black Unicorn: Poems" (1978) was published a few years earlier, but Audre Lorde's collection of poetry was influential and closely associated with Kitchen Table Press's early mission. Lorde's work addressed issues of race, gender, and sexuality, resonating with the press's goals.

Expanding Horizons (1980's-1990's)

Diverse Voices and Topics

Throughout the 1980's and 1990's, Kitchen Table Press continued to expand its catalog, reflecting a wide range of feminist and intersectional perspectives. The press published works that addressed issues of race, class, sexuality, and gender, with a particular emphasis on voices from marginalized communities.

Cheryl Clarke's "Living as a Lesbian" (1984) is a collection of essays and poems that explore the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality from a lesbian feminist perspective, contributing to the growing body of literature on queer and feminist issues.

This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color" (1981) was edited by Cherríe Moraga and Gloria Anzaldúa. This influential anthology was associated with Kitchen Table Press and included writings that examined the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality from a radical feminist perspective.

Activism and Influence

Kitchen Table Press was not only a publisher but also a hub for feminist activism. It played a role in organizing and supporting feminist conferences, workshops, and events that sought to advance social justice and feminist causes.

The press's work influenced feminist scholarship and activism, helping to shape conversations around race, gender, and sexuality in academic and activist circles. Its publications provided critical insights and frameworks that informed the feminist movement and broader discussions on social justice.

Legacy (1990's-Present)

Impact and Contributions

Kitchen Table Press's contributions to feminist literature and scholarship were significant and enduring. The press helped to establish a foundation for intersectional feminist theory and practice, highlighting the importance of diverse voices and experiences.

Many of the works published by Kitchen Table Press have continued to be influential in feminist scholarship and activism. The press's emphasis on amplifying the voices of women of color and addressing issues of systemic oppression has had a lasting impact on the feminist movement.

Transition and Continuation

As the publishing landscape evolved, Kitchen Table Press's focus on feminist and intersectional literature continued to inspire new generations of feminist publishers and activists. While the press itself eventually ceased operations, its legacy lives on through its publications and the ongoing influence of its authors and contributors.

Contemporary feminist publishers and organizations continue to build on the foundation established by Kitchen Table Press, promoting diverse voices and advancing the principles of intersectional feminism.

Kitchen Table Press was a trailblazing feminist publishing house that played a crucial role in expanding the scope of feminist literature and scholarship. Founded in 1980, it provided a platform for diverse and marginalized voices, addressing issues of race, gender, sexuality, and class.

The press's impact on feminist activism and scholarship continues to be felt today, and its legacy remains a testament to the power of grassroots publishing in advancing social justice and equality.