When deciding the theme for our Spring 2026 issue, we as an editorial board wanted to show another side of the kaleidoscope of Black literature. As we transition from the previous issue’s theme—Revolution—we wanted to take this journal in a new, more imaginative direction. At the end of any revolution is the “after”—the world a movement is fighting to exist in. Part of taking part in a revolution is knowing what lies in the future, what awaits our people on the other side. Hence, why we decided on the theme of Afrofuturism. The term “Afrofuturism” was coined by scholar Mark Dery in 1993, giving a name to existing traditions within Black literature. This genre centers on Black culture and identity within a future created by us, and for us—incorporating aspects of technology and science fiction into our art. As you dive into this issue, we want you to begin to imagine what lies in your future. What awaits you when you allow your mind to transcend the norms of our current world? What awaits you when you allow yourself to dream?  

​

Olivia Ocran

Editor-in-Chief