Started in 2023, Sumac Literary Magazine is named after and inspired by the staghorn sumac plant that grows on the Carleton University campus. While the staghorn sumac thrives throughout the City of Ottawa, varieties of sumac are also found around the world.

In Algonquin communities, as in other communities and cultures, sumac plants are used in recipes, medicines, and textiles. We acknowledge that our teams and facilities are situated on the traditional and unceded territories of the Algonquin Nation and that many of us are uninvited guests on this land. We acknowledge and thank the stewards and caretakers of this land and watershed. Their presence here reaches back to time immemorial, and we hope that our contribution, Sumac Literary Magazine, has a positive impact.

As multifaceted as the sumac plant, we aim to convey a variety of perspectives and art forms through the magazine. With an annually revolving team, we are dedicated to producing a magazine that embodies our commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility; we wish to uplift artistic voices within the community and encourage the participation of creatives from all backgrounds.

Much like the sumac plant, we are rooted in our Ottawa community and hope to grow with it. Sumac Literary Magazine publishes work by people connected to Carleton University and/or the land it is on. Students, alumni, faculty, staff, community members, and anyone with links to our campus or community are welcome to submit their work for consideration. If you walk your dog along the waterfront, drive past the Carleton sign each morning, once applied to Carleton, or have ever attended a Ravens vs Gee-Gees event, your submissions are welcome.