The Chattanooga Festivals of Black Arts & Ideas: James Baldwin Festival of Words, invites the public to celebrate the 100th birthday of literary luminary James Baldwin on Friday, Aug. 2, at 4:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Chattanooga Public Library Downtown, 1001 Broad St. This event is free and open to the public.
In addition to serving birthday cake and ice cream, the event will include screenings of several TV interviews and conversations featuring Mr. Baldwin. One will be an except from the debate between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley in 1965. In between screenings, there will be readings of Mr. Baldwin’s work, and the floor will open for discussion.
At 6 p.m. the celebration moves to Matilda’s After Midnight inside The Dwell Hotel, 120 East St. Local poets will recite more of Mr. Baldwin’s work and original pieces he inspired.
Mr. Baldwin reshaped the landscape of Black art through his prose and commentary on racial and social issues. His eloquence and courage paved the way for discussions on race, identity, sexuality, and inequality, solidifying his importance in shaping the discourse and impact of Black art. We honor his legacy by curating thought-provoking discussions, showcasing diverse voices, and promoting works that delve into the complexities of race, identity, and social justice, said officials.
Born in 1924, Mr. Baldwin's seminal works, including "Go Tell It on the Mountain" and "The Fire Next Time," continue to resonate, challenging societal norms and offering perspectives on the Black experience. Mr. Baldwin's audacious spirit and intellectual rigor have left an indelible mark on literature, influencing generations of writers and thinkers, said officials.
Register to attend at BlackArtsAndIdeasFest.com.