Celebrate the Legacy of Joseph Beam: Free Download of Anthology on Its Tenth Anniversary
February28, 2025 - ATLANTA, GA – In a powerful tribute to the enduring influence of writer and activist Joseph Beam, we are excited to announce that the acclaimed anthology Black Gay Genius: Answering Joseph Beam’s Call is now available for free download. After nearly a decade out of print, this essential collection features a rich tapestry of critical essays, poetry, personal narratives, interviews, translations, and more from an array of diverse contributors, all celebrating the profound legacy of Beam and the vibrant Black gay arts movement of the 1980s.
Conceived by Charles Stephens and Steven G. Fullwood, this project aims to reclaim and amplify the voices of Black gay men whose contributions have often been sidelined. “We wanted to elevate the legacies of Joseph Beam, Marlon Riggs, Essex Hemphill, and others to challenge the misconception that Black gay men's activism is a recent phenomenon,” said Stephens, co-editor of the anthology.
While Black Gay Genius reflects on the revolutionary spirit of the 1980s, it also aspires to inspire future generations, building upon the artistic and political foundations laid by Black gay artists and activists. “In many ways, this book is a love letter to Joseph Beam and the remarkable Black gay men and allies, many of whom continue to write and resist today,” noted Fullwood, co-editor and publisher of Vintage Entity Press (VEP).
As we commemorate Joseph Beam's 70th birthday in 2025, this digital release serves as a homage to his contributions and those of other writers who have passed since the anthology's original publication. The download is made available through Stephens' Counter Narrative Project (CNP), an organization dedicated to utilizing collective memory as a transformative strategy for narrative change. CNP believes that harmful narratives lead to detrimental policies and empowers communities to reclaim their stories. Black Gay Genius stands as a testament to the critical importance of this work.
To download your free copy of Black Gay Genius: Answering Joseph Beam’s Call, please visit: https://www.thecounternarrative.org/blackgaygenius
For inquiries regarding this project, please reach out to Steven G. Fullwood at: stevengfullwood@gmail.com
###
About the Counter Narrative Project (CNP)
The Counter Narrative Project (CNP) is dedicated to shifting narratives about Black queer men to drive policy change and improve lives. Committed to coalition-building and solidarity with all racial and social justice movements, we honor the legacy of pioneers such as Bayard Rustin and James Baldwin. Our key initiatives include: (1) The Reckoning, (2) The CNP Media Roundtable, and (3) the Narrative Leadership Institute.
About Vintage Entity Press (VEP)
Founded in 1985, Vintage Entity Press (VEP) began as a publisher of limited edition chapbooks with a mission to present thought-provoking literature that challenges societal and cultural norms. Over the years, VEP has evolved to showcase innovative works by a diverse array of poets, fiction writers, academics, and essayists committed to addressing pressing social, spiritual, sexual, racial, and political issues. Our publications prioritize the experiences and contributions of people of color within the global community.
In 2023, VEP Special Editions expanded its mission to produce zines and other collaborative publications with artists and organizations.
