Amplifying Voices: DC Public Library and Well-Read Black Girl Launch Monthly Author Events

This June, the DC Public Library and Well-Read Black Girl are joining forces to launch a new series of monthly author events to promote diverse voices in literature and inspire conversations around societal issues. Facilitated by Glory Edim, founder of Well-Read Black Girl, the series promises to engage audiences with an insightful exchange between authors and readers

The inaugural session will take place on June 28 and feature a lively exchange between Rachel E. Cargle, author of "A Renaissance of Our Own," and Tia Williams, author of "The Perfect Find." Cargle's story explores her journey from a small-town Christian wife to a queer feminist activist. At the same time, Williams' novel presents a woman reinventing herself amidst societal pressures. These narratives mirror the objectives of the event series: fostering discussions around inequality, societal norms, and personal transformation. Williams' novel has been adapted into a Netflix series starring Gabrielle Union, set to premiere just two weeks before the event.

“As a lifelong reader, I'm honored to be in partnership with the DC Public Library,” said Glory Edim, founder of Well-Read Black Girl. “The library is perfectly positioned to support Well-Read Black Girl’s mission to increase diversity and representation in publishing. From Rachel E. Cargle to Ibi Zoboi, I've curated a compelling literary lineup that highlights the beauty and expansiveness of Black culture. Our book club welcomes all D.C. residents to join the conversation with curiosity, community, and civic engagement in mind!"

These events transcend traditional author meet-and-greets, offering a rich platform for detailed dialogues between authors and readers. Participants will gain insights into the inspirations, motivations, and writing processes behind these impactful narratives, enhancing their understanding of the explored themes.

Glory Edim, the facilitator of these discussions, brings her experience as an author, community activist, and founder of Well-Read Black Girl. With a mission to amplify the voices of Black, Brown, and Indigenous writers, Edim's work complements the narratives of authors like Cargle and Williams, further underlining the significance of diverse voices in contemporary literature.

The series will continue with Jamila Minnicks discussing “Moonrise Over New Jessup” in July and "Nigeria Jones" with Ibi Zoboi in August. 

With the launch of this new initiative, the DC Public Library, Well-Read Black Girl and Glory Edim are sharing compelling narratives and fostering conversations around social change and inequality. Readers can anticipate engaging dialogues that challenge societal norms and promote authenticity. With such a powerful start, the stage is set for an enlightening series of author events in the coming months.

The events will take place at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Well-Read Black Girl at DC Public Library is generously supported by the DC Public Library Foundation For more information, visit https://www.dclibrary.org/well-read-black-girl.