Why we created this directory
We Are Here to Help!
All editors are not created equal. This site was created to help authors, academics, small business owners, consultants, bloggers, technical writers, medical writers, attorneys, organizations, and others in search of quality editorial support to find skilled and experienced pros that can get the job done—and done right.
Areas of Expertise
Our editors are well-experienced business professionals with editing prowess. We specialize in:
Developmental Editing
Substantive Editing
Line Editing
Content Editing
Copyediting
Proofreading
Additionally, select individuals you’ll meet here offer supplemental services related to the craft of writing and the business of publishing.
A leading resource for publishers, corporations, and writers seeking skilled Black editorial professionals
The Editors
Sherian Brown
Fiction | Nonfiction | Medical | Digital Content
Tamira Butler-Likely, PhD
Fiction | Nonfiction | Academic | Scientific
Gwyn Jordan
Fiction | Nonfiction
Brandy Patton
Nonfiction | Fiction | Business | Medical | Digital Content
Michelle Chester
Fiction | Nonfiction | Technical
We help writers publish confidently.
Simply put, the fact is that no one speaks our language nor innately understands our culture, our dialect, our perspectives—our unique voices—like we do. The Black editors listed in this directory not only understand you, we are trained in enhancing your writing and clarifying your message while maintaining all the flavor of your unique voice and style.
We edit greatness.
Some of our clients include “Big 5” publishers, such as HarperCollins, Harper Muse, Harper Mariner, Amistad, Hachette Book Group, Avalon, Moon Guides, Workman, Simon & Schuster, Adams Media, and Penguin Random House, plus Hallmark, Harlequin, and Neuwirth & Associates. Our corporate and nonprofit clients include Color Of Change, ISPU, Southern Poverty Law Center, Nacelle, The Commonwealth Fund, American Heart Association, Pearson, Flame Tree Publishing, Baylor Health, GirlTrek, Lockton, and many more.
We’ve edited the works of bestselling, award-winning authors and celebrities, including Cedric the Entertainer, Connie Briscoe, Rita Dove, Jamaica Kincaid, Carl Phillips, Mathew Knowles, Jewell Parker Rhodes, Pemon Rami, Adeeyo Oludara, Laila Ibrahim, Kevin Daley, Tiffany Haddish, EbonyJanice, Chimeka Garricks, Eghosa Imasuen, and Angela Jackson-Brown, among hundreds of others.
Your Trusted Resource
Supporting Black editors and writers
Black Editors & Proofreaders and Black Writers Collective networks were founded on principles of umoja (unity); ujamaa (cooperative economics); nia (purpose); and kuumba (creativity)—the same principles that celebrate community, family, African American culture, and African heritage in the spirit of Kwanzaa year-round.
We've built an integrated network of elite editors, gifted book coaches, amazing mentors, and talented writers and invite you to join us, whether as a member or a client.
Want to join our directory?
We have slots open for elite editorial business owners to join our network of proven professionals. We’re accepting copyeditors, line/substantive editors, developmental editors, proofreaders, and coaches. There continues to be a heightened demand for poetry editors, line editors, and developmental editors. > Learn more/apply now
Join the Network
Are you an aspiring or experienced editor looking for a community of fellow Black editors? You don’t have to be profiled in our directory to be part of our network. Join our Discord community now. Membership is free.
For Aspiring Editors
So You Want to Be an Editor … But Can You Edit? is a must-read for anyone considering a career in editing. Authored by a seasoned editor with years of industry experience, this book helps aspiring editors assess whether they have the skills to succeed. It demystifies the editing profession, breaking down what it truly takes to thrive and providing clear guidance on building a sustainable career. From understanding the nuances of editing to avoiding common pitfalls, this resource is packed with practical insights and actionable advice. Whether you’re new to the field or seeking a deeper understanding, this book is your guide.
