[Every day for the month of February, I will post a brief write-up of a Black author and links to some of their books. Please click the links in the text to find copies of their works.]

Essex Hemphill (1957-1995) was an African American writer, poet, and activist who was born in Washington D.C. His work explored themes of race, sexuality, and the intersections of these identities.

Hemphill was known for his powerful and honest writing about the experiences of Black gay men. His writing is widely recognized for its contributions to the cultural conversation around AIDS, particularly among Black LGBTQ communities. His works, including “Ceremonies,” “Saviour,” and “Brother to Brother,” can be found in various anthologies and academic journals. Hemphill’s legacy continues to inspire and inform contemporary writers and activists working on issues of race, sexuality, and social justice.