The Housing of Feminist Literary Art & Beyond

Tucked behind Brewhouse Café on Euclid Avenue is an unassuming purple house that has shaped Atlanta’s literary and social movements for the last 44 years. Charis is one of the oldest feminist bookstores in the country and has stayed true to feminist values ever since its inception. Charis is not just a bookstore; it is a headquarters for Atlanta residents to educate, resist, and connect to their community. 270 events per year range from yoga on Sundays to weekly talks on topics such as race consciousness, bisexual visibility, anti-ableism, body image, social justice, and reproductive rights.

Charis is not only dedicated to providing a safe place for their community, they are passionate about providing a platform for authors whose stories and experience don’t have a place in mainstream media. Charis Circle is a non-profit that operates in conjunction with the bookstore. The literary project “seeks to expand existing notions of literature, test cultural and discipline-based boundaries and traditions, cultivate written experimentation, encourage discourse between schools of thought, and build audiences for live literary experiences. With a primary focus on diverse and marginalized voices, FMC is a cutting-edge literary project that works to build a place at the table for all artists.” Any author whose material aligns with the values of intersectional feminism can submit their work to be featured. Local authors may also submit self-published work on a consignment basis.

So, you haven’t written your book yet, but long for similar minds to connect with? Making Space is a writing group for activist, healers, and everyday heroes that meet on the second Monday of each month. The group is focused on sharing stories from those who dedicate their lives to making our world a little better. Educators, psychologists, social workers, and everyday activists have important stories to tell. These are the stories that have shaped the feminist community and will continue to alter not only Atlanta’s history, but our country’s.

Charis has been a staple of Little Five Points since the beginning. Elizabeth Anderson, executive director of Charis Circle, announced in late 2016 that the store would be moving to 184 South Candler Street, across from Agnes Scott College in early 2019. The new location is larger and has the space needed to continue hosting events, reading groups, and other gatherings of great minds. 

If you’re interested in donating toward renovations to ensure the new location is both beautiful and accessible, please visit CharisCircle.org. Volunteers are also always needed to give their talents and valuable time.