The Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library hosted the 7th Annual Book Fest and Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 15, 2024 offering a glimpse into African American Art, literature, and storytelling.
This year’s author presentation showcased African Americans & the Arts. The event highlighted works inspired by different representations of art in the African American community. The day included performances by Poet Laureate Januarie York, a feature film showing from IU Bloomington Black Film Center & Archive, African Drumming by Siteaw Inc, a music performance by Jamie Johnson, DJN4Red, and a Photo 360 photobooth.
Our featured speaker was NY Times Bestselling & USA Today top 100 Author JaQuavis Coleman who spoke about his new book, answered a few Q&A, and signed books.
We look forward to seeing you at the CBLC Book Fest and Juneteen Celebration 2025!
Juneteenth is a national holiday that celebrates the emancipation of enslaved Texans two years after the signing of the emancipation proclamation in 1863. Learn more about Juneteenth.
The CBLC Book Fest & Juneteenth Celebration is sponsored by the Library's African American History Committee in support of the Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library.
The Juneteenth Table: Putting a Twist on Tradition
Celebrate Juneteenth with culinary creations, both traditional and modern! Each title contains recipes that call back to African heritage, African-American history, and long-held traditions of eating red foods for health, happiness, and celebration. Add something new to your Juneteenth table with these delicious offerings below. Happy Cooking!
Watermelon & Red Birds
A Cookbook for Juneteenth and Black Celebrations
The ultimate Juneteenth cookbook, packed with recipes like Beef Ribs with Fermented Harissa, Molasses Glazed Chicken Thighs, and Ginger Pound Cake! You won't be disappointed with any of the offerings. If you find yourself flustered at the thought of making your own sauces or marinades, the author provides handy dandy wisdom and recommendations to carry you along on your culinary journey. She provides lists of BIPOC companies (who make fabulous sauces, rubs, and other mixes) to support your quest to have the perfect Juneteenth table.
My America
Recipes From A Young Black Chef
Not only will this book encourage you to be a better chef, but it will also help you take chances with your cooking that you hadn't previously entertained. With more than 125 recipes celebrating the African Diaspora, "My America" will leave you and your family smiling. There's a reason why this book won Bon Appetit's Best Book of the Year Award!
Ghetto Gastro Black Power Kitchen
Ghetto Gastro is a culinary collective that celebrates Black culture, using food as a means to speak out about issues like race, inclusion, equity, and accessibility. They focus on access to food and knowledge of cooking and how both aspects can lead to power, lifting up both individuals and their communities. This book is their manifesto and centers on food as a means of nourishment and advancement. The recipes and writing will positively knock your socks off. This is one title that's not to be missed!