Synonym is an independent culture publication serving the diaspora — the immigrant, the global majority, and the third-culture.
We exist to amplify the voices of those who live between cultures: immigrants and people who have built new identities from the spaces in between. Through stories, essays, interviews, and food as a universal language, we create a platform where overlooked communities find belonging, visibility, and power. Whether someone self-identifies as part of the diaspora or comes to the discourse as a novice, everyone eats and everyone communes. Culture is shaped by how food, recipes, and ways of gathering are passed down through history, migration, and generational memory.
We strive to reflect the diversity of our audience, and we actively seek out and commission writers and contributors from the global majority—those stories which are otherwise marginalized and too often overlooked. We are a volunteer-run editorial team that is 80% people of color. For us, it’s about showing that a global majority-led magazine about arts and culture is not only possible—it’s something audiences are actively seeking out.
Synonym is more than a publication; it is a true labor of love. It builds a bridge that fosters empathy and understanding, and it celebrates our shared humanity. That’s why we chose the name Synonym: because deep in our souls, we are all connected, and our successes and failures are linked together.
Our team
- Founder & Editor in Chief
- Caroline Hwang
- Editors
- Lisa Butterworth, Jessica Darakjian
& Remy Ramirez - Visuals Director
- Nidia Cueva
- Design Director
- Joel Speasmaker
- Copy Editor
- Leah Zibulsky
- Partnerships
- Tiffany Moldof
Support us
We are a completely independent, self-funded magazine and could use your support. Our editorial board is volunteer-based and all of our profits go right back into making the magazine. Our goal is to become sustainable and better serve our community.
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Fiscally sponsored by
a 501(c)(3)
charitable organization
