CHICAGO BLACK AUTHORS NETWORK CELEBRATES BLACK LITERARY HISTORY By Marcie Hill When you are a people of literary history, it strengthens you. These affirmative words were spoken by Dr. Dennis Woods, keynote speaker at the Chicago Black Authors Networks (CBAN) 1st Annual Literary Luncheon, which was held at the Beverly Woods on Saturday , October 5, 2013. With over 100 people in attendance, this inaugural event was a huge success. Darryl Harvey , president of CBAN, told the Bulletin that he started the organization four years ago when, I realized a lot of independent authors in Chicago could benefit from pooling resources . I reached out to collaborate on different events in order to promote African American literature. Currently, the organization has 17 members with writers in all genre. In addition to supporting the literary goals of its members , CBAN holds book fairs, arts events and other special events throughout the year. Dr. Woods, founder of Life to Legacy Publishing , said, I was homeless in a homeless rescue mission in Wisconsin . I was a functional drug addict. He shared his dream of being an author with the director of the mission . The director told Woods that no one would read his books because he didnt have a degree, Because Woods refused to listen to that director, he published his first book in 1994 and started Life to Legacy Publishing in 2010. His clientele include local legends Albertina Walker, the queen of gospel; broadcast icon Merri Dee and Spencer Leak Sr. of Leak & Sons Funeral Homes. He closed his speech by encouraging the attendees to do whatever they do with a spirit of excellence. CBAN presented author awards for their contributions to African American literary history to two local giants: Dr. Jawanza KUnjufu and Glennette Tilley Turner. Dr. Kunjufu , the author of 36 books, many of which focus on the education of black males was unable to attend. His award was accepted by Becky Wright his assistant at African American Images. Glennette Turner , an author, historian, and educator , has conducted extensive historical research on the Underground Railroad , particularly in Illinois, the Midwest and in her childhood home of St. Augustine ,Florida. It is an ultimate honor to be recognized by my fellow writers, says Turner. Historically, we jumped through hurdles to get our works published and distributed. Most importantly, she noted that many writings by African Americans are life affirming and life saving. Other people who made this event a success were: J. Anthony Graves, Emee ; Corey Barksdale , gospel artist and Robin Aikens , a violinist, and all of the members of CBAN. To learn more about the benefits of a CBAN membership contact Darryl Harvey at chgoban@yahoo or 773 443 3763.
Posted on: Thu, 24 Oct 2013 04:09:48 +0000
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