Poetry Speaks! African American Poetry Read-in
Wednesday, February 14, 2018 | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Main Library – McMaster Center
African Americans have profoundly influenced American poetry, from Phillis Wheatley to Paul Lawrence Dunbar, through the poets of the Harlem Renaissance, and into this twenty-first century explosion of brilliant new poets.
In celebration, we’re asking people in our community to choose one favorite poem or excerpt by an African American poet to read in a staged reading emceed by Rhonda Sewell, Toledo Lucas County Public Library’s External and Governmental Affairs Manager, and to tell us a bit about what it means to them.
Register to read a favorite poem (not your own, but published), family friendly, and no longer than a 5 minute time slot. Registration is required only to read.
Online Registration for Readers opens January 15, 2018 and closes February 7, 2018.
Everyone is invited to attend.
Looking for a poem to read at the event? Check out these notable selections.
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Looking for online sources? Check these out:
Black History Month – Academy of American Poets
To celebrate Black History Month in February—and the rich tradition of African American poetry all year long—browse essays on literary milestones and movements, find important books on black history and poetics, look for lesson plans for Black History Month, read archival letters from classic African American poets, and search poems about the African American experience by both classic and contemporary poets.
Celebrating Black History Month – Poetry Foundation
Poems, articles, and podcasts that explore African American history and culture.
University of Pittsburg Center for African American Poets and Poetics
The mission of the Center for African American Poetry and Poetics (CAAPP) at the University of Pittsburgh is to highlight, promote, and share the poetry and poetic work of African American and African diasporic writers.