Authenticity as Ethos: Why Diversity Alone Won’t Build Integrity in Publishing

Authenticity as Ethos: Why Diversity Alone Won’t Build Integrity in Publishing

Liliann Albelbaisi, Publicity Representative, Stirred Stories Kelsea Johnson, Co-Founder, Stirred Stories

In this presentation, we will make the case that the publishing industry’s diversity problem is rooted in its systemic superficiality. We will contextualize this startling reality within industry DEI priorities and data over the last ten years and present the Stirred Stories method as an alternative to inequitable norms. We will examine publishing DEI growth 2015 to date at the author, editorial, and executive levels, and discuss the Stirred Stories approach to equity in our publishing practices, profit-sharing model, and approach to equity in the workplace, building a seventy-five percent BIPOC team and publishing house that’s majority owned by women of color.

Kelsea Johnson is the co-founder of indie publishing house Stirred Stories, which has been recognized by the Children’s Book Council, Reading is Fundamental, and the Washington Post for its diverse collection of books and refreshing approach to publishing. Prior to Stirred Stories, Kelsea worked as a communications and advocacy professional for marginalized communities at local and national levels. A native and current resident of Washington, DC, Kelsea is committed to using storytelling as a tool for positive social change.

Liliann Albelbaisi works as the Publicity Representative at Stirred Stories. Liliann graduated in May 2023 with her MPS in Publishing from George Washington’s College of Professional Studies. Throughout her career, she has worked with a wide range of publications including local magazines, children’s publishers, and public policy periodicals. Liliann believes that an effective storyteller will be able to pass along some of the most important morals, no matter the kind of story.