> “We have been here for you — now we need you to be here for us.”

— Janifer Wilson, Founder of Sisters Uptown

Located in Washington Heights, Sisters Uptown was founded in 2000 by Janifer Wilson, a proud Harlem native and former nurse turned literary champion. Her mission? To create a safe, affirming space for Black readers and writers in an ever-gentrifying city.

The bookstore has hosted readings, workshops, healing circles, and celebrations featuring emerging and bestselling Black authors alike. It’s a launchpad for Black brilliance — and its loss would echo far beyond New York.

Despite decades of service, Sisters Uptown is now battling financial hardship brought on by rising operating costs, reduced foot traffic, and limited resources. Like many Black-owned indie bookstores, it was hit hard by the pandemic — and never fully recovered.

Unless immediate action is taken, the bookstore may be forced to shut its doors by the end of the year.