It’s hard to believe that it’s still January; with everything going on, it feels like we’re already months into 2021.
But it’s truly only the beginning—the beginning of a new year full of uncertainty and strife, yes, but also full of hope. A hopeful end to the pandemic. And hopefully some much needed institutional changes.
I started 2020 full of excitement only to have that quickly turn into loneliness and despair. I (reluctantly) embraced new ways to connect with friends and family, built better support systems, matured a lot mentally, and gained financial stability for the first time in a while.
I also saw so many of us work tirelessly to hold accountable, to challenge antiquated, racist systems, all while continuing to support and uplift each other.
In the midst of all that, I realized that the work I’ve poured myself into these past few years—working to create a network for people of color in the book publishing industry, working to sustainably diversify this industry—could happen without me at the helm of this organization. I realized that I didn’t need to be the president of People of Color in Publishing, that I needed to let it grow and thrive and change into what a new generation needs it to be.
And so, I am stepping down as president of People of Color in Publishing. A decision that wasn’t easy, that I instantly wanted to take back, but that I feel in my heart is the right one.
As many of you know, I started this organization in the summer of 2016. I was twenty-two, and I hated my job. Which I’m sure is something a lot of people just out of college can relate to, but in my case, it was especially fraught as I didn’t feel supported by my white bosses, I didn’t see a path for growth, and it was exhausting constantly having to build my own networks—networks my white peers seemed to have instant access to. I wanted us, POC in the industry, to have our own space to flourish and network and thrive.
People of Color in Publishing has been one of the few constants in my life these past few years. It feels like every week that I get an email or DM from someone talking about a connection they made through the organization, a job found, a friend gained. I never would’ve returned to work in publishing had it not been for this organization, for all of you and your endless support.
It gives me great pleasure to announce that Christine Hung will be the interim Chair for People of Color in Publishing leading the planning committee as I transition to an advisory role within the organization. I have been wowed by Christine’s passion and vision ever since Saraciea Fennell brought her on board to co-chair the Communications & Events committee. I can’t wait to discover what Christine has planned for the organization.
Thank you for reminding me constantly of the power of this community that I helped create back when I was searching for a way to belong.
Thank you for supporting and championing each other.
Yours,
Patrice Caldwell
Founder, People of Color in Publishing
