Abstract
Some 30 years ago Barbara Metzger, a seasoned and extraordinary manuscript editor, joined with Frances Chilcote in overseeing the challenging task of working closely with authors and in the editing and shaping of their manuscripts into publishable form. Fran had devoted the early twenty years to this task, and shaped a process and way we edit manuscripts for Latin American Perspectives. Barbara had spent considerable time in Mexico and also as manuscript editor for the journal, Current Anthropology, and for book manuscripts published by the University of Chicago. What she brought to LAP is insistence that writing be clear and comprehensible and that editorial style be consistent. This at a time when most journals devote minimal attention to copy editing and “developmental editing” that delves into content, its meaning, consistency, and readability. Also remarkable was Barbara’s amazing speed, her technological knowledge and skill, and ability to keep up with current publishing standards and technical requirements. Having edited all six journal issues for 2023, Barbara peaceably passed on December 10, 2023. In recognition of her substantial contribution, the editorial collective proclaims:
We wish to acknowledge your enormous contribution and diligent effort over many years in ensuring Latin American Perspectives as a quality academic journal and your professionalism that has shaped everything we do. Thank you, Barbara, for guiding us with your dedication, strong work ethic, commitment to excellence, and all you have done to ensure the recognition of LAP as a leading journal with meaningful and useful content.