OM1 is a collection of writings from diverse and contemporary authors and artists focused on bridging the political, social, and cultural divide when it comes to such issues as immigration, refugees, and social memory.
The Idea
Towards the end of 2016, I saw a need for a return to E Pluribus Unum in the United States. 2015 and 2016 were disheartening years in America. They included the Dylan Roof Massacre, the Charlotte Riots in response to Keith Lamont Scott’s death, and a racially tense presidential election.
In reaction to these events and the strain they placed on different ethnic groups, I began planning out a book. However, I would not be the main author of this book — other people would be. I teamed up with my sister Clare, and later on Art Hooker joined our team. Together, we devised a way to collect diverse people’s anecdotes about unity and diversity in the United States.
Implementation and Results
Over the course of two years, we received submissions from 40+ authors and artists. These people originate from over 10 countries. There are six authors with PhDs, one of them being a professor at Yale University, and one author with her MD. We also received and translated poems in three different languages and gained permission to publish lyrics from a billboard-topping recording studio.
We contacted people within our network and traveled to meet other possible contributors. I led our team in editing and contacting contributors to discuss changes made to their texts. Afterwards, I collected all legal information, information for citations, and permissions. My sister Clare, who is an attorney, then verified that all legal steps were taken. With the manuscript completed, we strategically solicited publishers. Finally, Urban Loft Publishers accepted the manuscript, and the book was released in 2019 and is now available on Amazon. We are exceedingly grateful for the help and efforts of Urban Loft.
Benjamin Miller Jones 