[Posted Jan. 30, 2008]

Afr’Am Fest Launches Literary Campaign

     Afr’Am Fest, the region’s largest African-American arts festival, will celebrate its 25th Silver Anniversary this Memorial Day Weekend; however, organizers plan to celebrate all year long.
      This month they announced the launch of their literacy campaign, “Reading is a Family Affair,” an effort to encourage African-American families to begin reading at home. To kick-off the campaign, Afr’Am will take its Literary Café portion of the festival on the road. Their first stop—the Gallery at Military Circle on Saturday, Feb. 16 from noon until 4:30 p.m. at Walden Books.
      More than 20 African American authors from varying genres including young adult, Christian fiction, and urban literature will be on hand to discuss their books.
     “We’re very excited about the response to this event,” said Literary Café chairperson Tiffany L. Smith. “What started out as a small community event has grown into a monumental event. The event is sponsored by the Southeastern Virginia Arts Association (SEVAA), which was established in 1983 as a non-profit umbrella arts association to promote cultural arts.
     This first ever collaboration will bring together Essence best-selling authors like Tina Brooks McKinney, local authors like Wayne Dawkins and Meisha Camm, as well as several industry new comers.
      Authors will provide autographs and discussions. Organizers plan to collect donations of African-American children’s books for their Black Book Drive. This event is free and open to the public.
    To learn more, visit Afr’Am’s website at www.afram-fest. Proceeds from the festival go toward SEVAA’s programming and scholarship programs.

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