“The Henry James of Harlem”

- Colm Tóibín for The Guardian

James Baldwin Festival of Words

About James Baldwin

James Baldwin (1924 - 1987) was a legendary novelist, essayist, playwright, and activist. His writing and his own voice were distinctly eloquent, courageous, logical, and gripping. His themes spanned from the psychological implications of racism for both the oppressed and the oppressor to the intricacies of sexual and class distinctions. Baldwin fought ceaselessly for racial equality and sexual liberation and was a major figure in both the Civil Rights movement and the Gay Liberation movement of the 20th century.

Baldwin’s style was unmatched and some of his most famous literary works include Notes of a Native Son (1955), Nobody Knows My Name (1961), and The Fire Next Time (1963), and If Beale Street Could Talk (1974). In the College Language Association Journal, Therman B. O’Daniel called Baldwin “the gifted professor of that primary element, genuine talent. ... Secondly he is a very intelligent and deeply perceptive observer of our multifarious contemporary society. ... In the third place, Baldwin is a bold and courageous writer who is not afraid to search into the dark corners of our social consciences, and to force out into public view many of the hidden, sordid skeletons of our society. ... Then, of course, there is Baldwin’s literary style which is a fourth major reason for his success as a writer. His prose ... possesses a crystal clearness and a passionately poetic rhythm that makes it most appealing.”

Festival Schedule

Sip, Paint & Spit: Poetry Meets Paint

June 12, 2022

Various Days

Sip, Paint & Spit: Poetry Meets Paint

This fun fusion event will combine a sip and paint session with a poetry showcase.

Writer’s Workshop

June 11, 2022

Various Days

Writer’s Workshop

Come spend a few hours with Erika Roberts, creator of "Velvet Poetry".

Shades of Poetry Showcase featuring Young Black Voices - A Tribute to James Baldwin

June 25, 2022

Various Days

Shades of Poetry Showcase featuring Young Black Voices - A Tribute to James Baldwin

Join us for an evening of memorable performances inspired by James Baldwin’s revolutionary life.

Rhyme N Chatt’s Fresh Out the Shoebox - Youth Open Mic

June 21, 2022

Various Days

Rhyme N Chatt’s Fresh Out the Shoebox - Youth Open Mic

This interactive open mic session is led by the poets of Rhyme N Chatt Interactive Poetry Organization.

Literary Lounge

June 11, 2022

Various Days

Literary Lounge

Come support the work of local Black authors and poets! Local Black authors and poets will come together to share excerpts of their writing and will have booths set up to sell their books and merchandise. Join in on the conversation between the writers and the audience.

An Intimate Evening with Spoken Word Artist Obbie West

June 17, 2022

Various Days

An Intimate Evening with Spoken Word Artist Obbie West

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Obbie West! His delivery is electric, his ideas are refreshing, and his talent is undeniable.