Dear readers and fellow members of this beautiful community,
I am equal parts thrilled and humbled to be serving as the Editor in Chief for Defunkt Magazine. While I was a late edition to the staff, and have not seen volume 13 from its inception, it has been a privilege and honor to work with these words chosen by the magazine staff preceding my arrival.
I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Defunkt on and off over the years and have long-admired this magazine’s commitment to empowering voices around the country and the world, cataloging and championing a wide range of lived experiences. I’m also so proud of the way that Defunkt has embedded itself into the literary community as a pillar of support to emerging and established writers through respect and equity.
As a reflection of these goals, volume 13 is no different than the volumes that came before it, and I personally believe it continues to push the boundaries and heighten the stakes with beautiful and challenging narratives that ultimately connect us with what it is to be human, what it is to love, grieve, and experience ecstasy against turmoil and oppression. Ultimately, this issue reflects the unique experience of each author’s journey and outlook. I am so proud to have played a role in helping them reach this volume’s finish line.
I cannot wait to continue my journey with Defunkt Magazine as we move forward into a new year, a new administration, and other changes that will no doubt impact and challenge us. I am completing this volume with the confidence that we are a community of love, empathy, strength, and a deep understanding of how important we are as individuals who create a resilient and remarkable ecosystem.
I am excited to continue with each of you and for all of the work to come. I delight in the privilege of it all and hope to wield it well.
With so much grace, peace, and persistence,