San Carlos Apache College has announced the publication of the inaugural issue of the Apache Ember Literary Journal, marking an exciting new chapter in the college’s commitment to Indigenous voices, community storytelling, and creative expression. The first issue represents what will become an ongoing literary tradition that celebrates the power of words to amplify voices, share cultures, inspire dialogue, and strengthen connections across generations. Published through the newly established Apache College Press, the inaugural issue of Apache Ember showcases original poetry, creative nonfiction, visual arts, and a screenplay by both established and emerging writers and artists. The works reflect a richness, resilience, and diversity of experiences, and the journal itself serves as both a literary publication and a community gathering place where stories, memories, and artistic expression can continue to grow.

The launch of Apache Ember reflects San Carlos Apache College’s mission to provide the Nnee an excellent higher education experience rooted in Nnee bi’at’e. Upholding the power of Apache wisdom involves supporting lifelong learning while honoring the knowledge, creativity, and lived experiences of its students. By providing an accessible publishing platform, the college seeks to encourage writers and artists to share work that ignites the creative spirit.

“The publication of our first issue represents much more than the release of a literary journal,” said Dr. Linda Sue Warner, president of San Carlos Apache College. “It is an investment in the voices of our people and our communities. Every poem, story, essay, and work of art reminds us that our experiences matter, our languages and traditions endure, and our creativity continues to shape the future. Apache Ember reflects who we are as a college, a place where education and culture strengthen one another.”

The journal also signals the continued growth of Apache College Press, the college’s expanding publishing initiative dedicated to advancing Indigenous scholarship, educational resources, creative works, and community-based publications. Through Apache College Press, San Carlos Apache College aims to amplify Indigenous perspectives while creating new opportunities for faculty, students, tribal communities, and regional partners to publish meaningful work. As Apache College Press expands, Apache Ember serves as one of its primary publications, demonstrating the college’s long-term commitment to fostering creativity alongside academic excellence. Future publishing projects will continue to support scholarship, curriculum development, community history, and creative expression rooted in Apache wisdom and Indigenous knowledge systems.

“Apache Ember was created with the belief that every story has the potential to spark understanding,” said the editorial team. “Like a single ember that can grow into a sustaining fire, each contribution carries something that deserves to be tended. Whether it is knowledge, memory, imagination, or hope, we are honored by the writers and artists who entrusted us with their work for this inaugural issue and look forward to seeing the journal continue to grow.”

With the release of its inaugural issue, the editorial team is already looking ahead to future editions. People from Apache communities are invited to participate in the upcoming volume 1, number 2, community edition (Nnee/Ndee Bitsiid), scheduled for publication this fall. This special issue will celebrate local voices by featuring creative works from community members of all ages and experience levels. Writers, poets, storytellers, photographers, and artists are encouraged to submit original work that reflects their experiences, cultures, families, traditions, landscapes, and aspirations. The Nnee/Ndee Bitsiid community edition is intended to create an inclusive space where first-time contributors and seasoned creators alike can share stories that strengthen community identity and inspire future generations.

At the same time, submissions are now being accepted for volume 2, number 1, planned for publication in the spring of 2027. This general edition welcomes submissions from all over. The editorial board encourages works that celebrate Indigenous perspectives, community resilience, language revitalization, land, identity, history, and contemporary life, while remaining open to a broad range of creative voices and literary styles.

As Apache College Press grows, San Carlos Apache College looks forward to providing new opportunities for authors, artists, educators, and community members to share knowledge, challenge old narratives, and cultivate creativity in ways that will inspire readers today and for generations to come.