Split Lip Magazine is an established independent literary publication with a history of championing voices that might otherwise be marginalized by mainstream literary gatekeeping. This specific reading period is dedicated to Black writers, a deliberate curatorial intervention that acknowledges the persistent underrepresentation of Black voices in literary fiction and creates a focused space for their work. The magazine's editorial identity favors narratives that are both literary and accessible, with a stated preference for stories that engage with contemporary culture without sacrificing craft. The submission process is free, removing a common economic barrier that disproportionately affects emerging and underrepresented writers. Accepted work will be published in the magazine, joining an archive that the editors explicitly encourage prospective submitters to read. This is not a contest with a cash prize; the reward is publication in a journal with a discerning readership and a commitment to literary quality. The magazine also considers translations, albeit rarely, and requires documented permission from the original author—a detail that signals a professional, rights-conscious approach. The editors ask for disclosure of AI use in any phase of creation, writing, or editing, with an explanation of how and why it was used. This policy reflects a broader industry conversation about transparency and authorship. The cover letter should include word count, a brief bio, and contact information. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but writers must withdraw or notify the magazine if the piece is placed elsewhere. The overall curatorial vision is one of serious literary engagement with the present moment, open to pop culture but not beholden to it, and grounded in a respect for both the writer's labor and the reader's intelligence.