The Hurston/Wright Foundation is marking its 35th anniversary with an exciting update to its annual Legacy Awards, now renamed the Zora Awards. This change reflects a celebration of emerging Black authors, particularly those making their mark in debut fiction.
The Zora Award will now feature a significantly increased cash prize for winners, moving up to an impressive $20,000 thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor. This is a fantastic boost for new authors as they begin their writing careers.
Submissions for the next Zora Awards are now closed, and the ceremony is set for October 17 in Washington D.C. Finalists will be announced in August, building anticipation for this notable event.
The new name honors Zora Neale Hurston, an influential Black writer from the Harlem Renaissance era. Hurston’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate today. Lisandra Green, a trustee of the Zora Neale Hurston Trust, expressed excitement about the renaming, highlighting Hurston’s remarkable talent and her lasting impact on literature.
This award was originally established in 2002 to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Black authors in the literary field. Marita Golden, co-founder of the Hurston/Wright Foundation, emphasized that the rebranding and the increased financial support reinforce the foundation’s commitment to nurturing Black writers and their contributions to storytelling. She noted that the debut fiction award is crucial for fostering new talent and raising awareness of first-time authors.
In addition to the Zora Award for debut fiction, submissions are encouraged in categories like general fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Founded in 1990, the foundation remains dedicated to empowering Black writers and helping them excel in their literary pursuits.
