Celebrating Black Literary Excellence: The 12th National Black Writers Conference Unveils a Rich Program
The Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College is proud to announce its highly anticipated 12th annual National Black Writers Conference. This landmark event, set to unfold next weekend, promises an unparalleled celebration of Black literary genius, critical thought, and cultural heritage. From March 27th through March 30th, the vibrant community of Crown Heights, Brooklyn, will become a nexus for writers, scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, offering a profound exploration into the past, present, and future of Black storytelling.
For over a decade, the National Black Writers Conference has served as a crucial platform for fostering intellectual discourse, nurturing emerging talent, and honoring the enduring legacy of African American and diasporic literature. Organized by the esteemed Center for Black Literature, an institution dedicated to promoting and preserving the works of Black writers, the conference plays a vital role in shaping literary conversations and connecting diverse audiences with the profound insights offered by Black authors.
A Stellar Lineup of Literary Icons and Thought Leaders
This year’s conference boasts an extraordinary roster of speakers, featuring some of the most influential voices in contemporary literature and social activism. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with intellectual powerhouses such as:
- Angela Davis: A revered political activist, philosopher, academic, and author whose seminal works on race, class, and gender continue to inspire generations. Her presence underscores the conference’s commitment to exploring literature not just as an art form, but as a powerful tool for social change and intellectual liberation.
- Walter Mosley: A prolific and critically acclaimed novelist, celebrated for his groundbreaking detective series featuring Easy Rawlins. Mosley’s work brilliantly weaves intricate plots with sharp social commentary, offering deep insights into the African American experience. His discussions are expected to delve into the craft of storytelling and the nuances of character development.
These distinguished figures, among many others, will lead thought-provoking discussions, share their invaluable perspectives, and provide attendees with an intimate look into their creative processes and their vision for the future of Black literature.
Diverse Programming: Films, Workshops, and Historical Journeys
Beyond keynote addresses, the 12th National Black Writers Conference offers a rich tapestry of events designed to educate, inspire, and engage. The program is meticulously curated to cater to a wide range of interests, from literary analysis to historical remembrance and artistic performance.
Engaging Film Screenings and Historical Narratives
A highlight of the cinematic offerings includes a special screening of Gordon Parks’ powerful 1984 film, “Solomon Northup’s Odyssey.” This significant film is based on the harrowing true memoir of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was abducted and sold into slavery in the antebellum South. The story, famously adapted into the Academy Award-winning film “12 Years a Slave,” remains a poignant reminder of American history and the resilience of the human spirit. The screening will offer a crucial opportunity to reflect on Northup’s journey and Parks’ cinematic interpretation, providing context and depth to discussions on historical injustice and survival.
Further enriching the historical dimension of the conference, attendees are invited to participate in a complimentary tour of the African Burial Ground National Monument. Located in Lower Manhattan, this sacred site commemorates the resting place of thousands of enslaved and free Africans who lived and worked in colonial New York. The tour serves as a powerful connection to the ancestral roots of Black America, offering a solemn and educational experience that resonates deeply with the conference’s themes of identity, memory, and heritage. It’s an opportunity to walk through history and contemplate the narratives that have shaped the Black experience in America.
Exploring Caribbean Identity with a Nobel Laureate
One of the most anticipated sessions will feature Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, whose profound contributions to poetry and drama have illuminated the complexities of Caribbean identity. Walcott will lead a captivating talk titled “The Search for Self in Caribbean Literature: Past, Present, and Future.” This discussion promises to be an insightful journey into the unique literary landscape of the Caribbean, exploring how writers from the region have grappled with themes of colonialism, independence, diaspora, and the intricate fusion of cultures that define the Caribbean experience. Walcott’s unparalleled wisdom will provide invaluable perspectives on how literature serves as a mirror and a compass for understanding selfhood within a diverse and ever-evolving cultural context.
Interactive Workshops and Panel Discussions
The conference schedule is packed with dynamic workshops and panel discussions designed to engage and enlighten. These sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics, including the craft of writing, the publishing industry, literary criticism, and the intersection of literature with social justice issues. Aspiring writers can gain practical advice on developing their voices and navigating the literary world, while avid readers can dive deep into critical analyses of contemporary and classic works. These interactive forums encourage dialogue, foster mentorship, and build a stronger community among participants, ensuring that the spirit of literary exploration thrives.
A Rhythmic Evening: A Concert Tribute to Native Tongues
Adding a vibrant musical and poetic dimension to the conference, organizers are hosting a special concert next Friday evening. This event is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Native Tongues, an influential collective of hip-hop artists from the late 1980s and early 1990s known for their positive, Afrocentric lyrics and jazz-infused beats. The concert will feature the masterful jazz pianist Onaje Allan Gumbs, whose improvisational brilliance will set the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Sharing the spotlight will be an exceptional lineup of poets: Dasan Ahanu, Tai Allen, and Abiodun Oyewole of the iconic group The Last Poets. The Last Poets are widely regarded as pioneers of spoken word and a fundamental precursor to hip-hop, blending poetry with musical accompaniment to deliver powerful social and political commentary. Their performance, alongside contemporary voices, will bridge generations of Black artistic expression, celebrating the profound impact of words spoken, sung, and played. This unique blend of jazz, poetry, and hip-hop culture promises an electrifying experience, honoring a pivotal movement that profoundly shaped music and literature.
Important Details: Dates, Location, and Registration
The main conference activities will take place on the campus of Medgar Evers College in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, running from Thursday, March 27th, through Sunday, March 30th. This central location in a historically rich community makes the conference easily accessible and deeply embedded within the cultural fabric it celebrates.
The special concert tribute to Native Tongues will be held separately on Friday evening at 1037 Atlantic Avenue. Tickets for this standalone event are priced at an accessible $10, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience a unique blend of jazz and spoken word. For the broader conference, early registration is highly encouraged. Conference tickets are significantly cheaper if you register before the March 21st deadline, providing an incentive for attendees to secure their spots promptly. Furthermore, in a generous commitment to fostering student engagement, admission to the conference is completely free for all Medgar Evers College students, ensuring that future generations of scholars and writers have full access to this invaluable intellectual and cultural gathering.
The Enduring Legacy and Future Impact
The 12th National Black Writers Conference is more than just a series of talks and performances; it is a vital affirmation of the power and resilience of Black literature. It serves as a testament to the ongoing contributions of Black authors to global literary traditions and intellectual thought. By bringing together luminaries, emerging voices, and engaged audiences, the conference ensures that the narratives, histories, and dreams of Black communities continue to be heard, celebrated, and preserved for future generations.
This event provides a crucial space for reflection, dialogue, and inspiration, reinforcing the idea that literature is a living, breathing entity capable of challenging perceptions, fostering empathy, and driving progress. Whether you are a seasoned academic, an aspiring writer, a passionate reader, or simply curious about the rich tapestry of Black culture, the National Black Writers Conference offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of profound ideas and extraordinary talent. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a vibrant literary movement that continues to shape our understanding of the human experience.