Charlotte African American Book Festival celebrates African Americans contributions to literature, books, literacy, and the literary culture. It will be held Saturday, October 14th, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the historic Second Ward Gymnasium/Brooklyn Village located at 710 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. in downtown Charlotte, North Carolina.

The African American Book Festival was built to give the cemented and newly emerging authors, bookstores, and publishers of our culture a platform to spread the messages that are embedded in the pages of their iconography. With one goal in mind, we want to educate, entertain, and impact the Charlotte community through African American literature, by shining light on the stories told in their books.

This event is a great opportunity for community members to meet and engage with their favorite black authors. There will be several featured authors.

Come out to support your authors, meet them face to face, get pictures, buy books at discounted prices, network with other professionals, and bring back reading books into normalcy and support authors in spreading their messages.

What can you expect?

This event will feature author and publisher exhibits, author discussions and book signings, entertainment, networking and door prizes. Books available will be suitable to all ages; from children, teenagers, young adults to adults. Authors will present fiction, poetry, nonfiction, memoirs, self-help, and spiritual offerings.

This event is free and open to the public. Come enjoy this free community Festival that celebrates the beauty, power, passion, and excitement of the written work.

This event will be featuring international human rights leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee. In support of a Colorado man, Ebenezer Norman who has used his passion for education to provide over 1000 children access to education in rural Africa.

One thing we can all agree upon is everyone is passionate about something, whether or not you have discovered it yet. "There is no time to rest until our world achieves wholeness and balance, where all men and women are considered equal and free". This will be an amazing opportunity to engage in global and community issues about how local community members can help turn "our upside-down World, right-side up."

An event designed to equip pastors to minister to needs of today.

A Native comedy show with local and national Indigenous comedians.

Join us for a fantastic time on the porch, where history and music collide to create an epic event that will leave you reminiscing.

Ten #1 hits. 65+ dates per year. Adam Hawley has burst on to the scene as a celebrated and innovative artist, composer and band leader. Originally signed to Maurice White’s (founder of Earth, Wind, & Fire) label Kalimba Music, Adam’s first two albums “Double Vision” and “Just the Beginning” spawned an incredible Six #1 Hits, an unprecedented feat for a new artist. He followed that up with “Escape” which included the 2020 Billboard Song Of The Year “To The Top.” In 2021 Adam set out with the exciting fourth album “Risin’ Up” which features Steve Cole, Vincent Ingala, Julian Vaughn, Riley Richard & Kat Hawley anchored by the thrilling first single “Risin’ Up.”

Adam has also been a guitarist to the stars, appearing with a who’s who list of artists in a wide variety of genres. Credits include Dave Koz, Jennifer Lopez, Brian Culbertson, Natalie Cole, Brian McKnight, and American Idol to name just a few.

He holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Southern California and currently teaches at Musician’s Institute, Chaffey College, and Saddleback College.

The Grammy and Stellar Award Nominated artist is an incredible act and one worth watching, saxophonist Marcus Anderson is the golden child shining among stars. With 13 studio albums on his list of accomplishments, the fusion jazz artist brings R&B, Pop, Rock and Funk to make music that puts listeners in another atmosphere. Charting number one in both categories of Billboard’s Smooth Jazz and Sirius XM’s Watercolors with numerous hits the Spartanburg, SC native is delivering major music in a humble way. His work with the late Prince and the New Power Generation led him to join stages with the likes of CeeLo Green, Judith Hill, Stevie Wonder, and Liv Warfield just to name a few, where he had become a key contributor in these touring band. Prince also featured Marcus on his last release Hit N Run Phase 2, playing on “Revelation” and “Look at Me Look at You”.

Anderson is an act that puts on a show for and with household names. Whether he is performing for dignitaries such as President Barack Obama, Jesse Jackson and Hillary Clinton or blazing the stage with Sheila E., Anthony Hamilton or Miguel in a collaborative effort, Anderson is always the man of the hour, delivering stellar musicianship every time. Stevie Wonder, CeeLo Green, Lailah Hathaway, Eric Benet, Brian Culbertson, Jennifer Holiday are just a few out of the numerous world-renowned artists that Anderson has opened for and with whom he has shared the stage.

Both near and far, audiences of all musical tastes have made their way to hear Marcus Anderson and his band “The Creatives”. He and his band present a show in which no other instrumentalist has ever brought to the stage. High-spirited and welcoming, Anderson is a multi-instrumentalist who is not afraid of “giving it his all” He’s a fan-favorite at highly recognized festivals such as Essence Music Festival, Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival, Seabreeze Jazz Fest and many more. He has also appeared with headliners on top-ranking shows like The Tonight Show, Arsenio Hall, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Jimmy Fallon.

An evening of intent, providing an outlet for concerned relatives and siblings to express their distress over current affairs in the U.S.

The Zinn Education Project hosts the Teach the Black Freedom Struggle online classes at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET for 90 minutes. In each session, a teacher interviews the historian and breakout rooms allow participants in small groups to meet each other, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff, however, we welcome parents, students, and others.

The Zinn Education Project hosts the Teach the Black Freedom Struggle online classes at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET for 90 minutes. In each session, a teacher interviews the historian and breakout rooms allow participants in small groups to meet each other, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff, however, we welcome parents, students, and others.

This FREE group focuses on empowering Black mothers by providing mental health and strategies for wellness. Moms are encouraged to share tips/tricks, offer support, and use it as a safe, happy place for happy mom things. This group just started to help moms form and build long-lasting friendships and establish a strong support group with one another. Join us! Unmask - Be real, be you!

This is a hybrid event offered in-person at our office in Pasadena and via zoom. Please register on Eventbrite and fill out our form to attend and coordinate picking up or receiving your group activity kit.

Racism is at the forefront of all conversations today in this country. America was built upon racism and is a part of all systems and structures. In order to eliminate racism, white America must solve this problem. The Black community is critical in giving whites and other non-Blacks the real history and the Black experience.

The first step is to acknowledge white privilege. To do that, we invite you to join us and take the "White Privilege Test" during "Come Meet A Black Person" networking event where non-Blacks interact genuinely with a group of diverse Black people. "Come Meet A Black Person" is an open forum for human beings to start better relationships with each other across our cultural and racial differences.

The Zinn Education Project hosts the Teach the Black Freedom Struggle online classes at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET for 90 minutes. In each session, a teacher interviews the historian and breakout rooms allow participants in small groups to meet each other, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff, however, we welcome parents, students, and others.

This FREE group focuses on empowering Black mothers by providing mental health and strategies for wellness. Moms are encouraged to share tips/tricks, offer support, and use it as a safe, happy place for happy mom things. This group just started to help moms form and build long-lasting friendships and establish a strong support group with one another. Join us! Unmask - Be real, be you!

This is a hybrid event offered in-person at our office in Pasadena and via zoom. Please register on Eventbrite and fill out our form to attend and coordinate picking up or receiving your group activity kit.

The Zinn Education Project hosts the Teach the Black Freedom Struggle online classes at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET for 90 minutes. In each session, a teacher interviews the historian and breakout rooms allow participants in small groups to meet each other, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff, however, we welcome parents, students, and others.

Each month, our members and guests select a book to read and discuss on the first Saturday of each month.

About this event

Black Professional Men, Inc. (BPM)BPM (www.bpminc.org) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Baltimore, Maryland. BPM was established in 1991 to address the social, economic, and political awareness needs of the African-American community, especially those of the African-American male. The motto of BPM is “Ensuring the Future of the African-American Male”.

Each month, our members and guests select a book to read and discuss on the first Saturday of each month.

Racism is at the forefront of all conversations today in this country. America was built upon racism and is a part of all systems and structures. In order to eliminate racism, white America must solve this problem. The Black community is critical in giving whites and other non-Blacks the real history and the Black experience.

The first step is to acknowledge white privilege. To do that, we invite you to join us and take the "White Privilege Test" during "Come Meet A Black Person" networking event where non-Blacks interact genuinely with a group of diverse Black people. "Come Meet A Black Person" is an open forum for human beings to start better relationships with each other across our cultural and racial differences.

THIS EVENT IS FOR COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING FOR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING SURROUNDING THE KWANZAA HOLIDAY. NOT THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

Learn about an uplifting holiday that is celebrated by over 30 million people worldwide and was created here in America during the 1960’s.

Kwanzaa is an African American holiday which celebrates family, community and culture.

Did you know that Kwanzaa is a non-religious celebration and does not conflict with Christmas in any way? In fact, many participants celebrate both!

The seven day festival, which begins on December 26 and ends January 1, brings a cultural message of unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility. Music, drumming, the lighting of candles and a feast are all part of the tradition.

This FREE group focuses on empowering Black mothers by providing mental health and strategies for wellness. Moms are encouraged to share tips/tricks, offer support, and use it as a safe, happy place for happy mom things. This group just started to help moms form and build long-lasting friendships and establish a strong support group with one another. Join us! Unmask - Be real, be you!

This is a hybrid event offered in-person at our office in Pasadena and via zoom. Please register on Eventbrite and fill out our form to attend and coordinate picking up or receiving your group activity kit.

We meet each week to read and discuss books to learn about entrepreneurship, learn how to apply technology to our businesses and network with like minded individuals from around the world. Listen to and learn from amazing dynamic speakers. Learn a new technology tip each week to implement in your business. Develop a positive mental attitude to accomplish your goals. Brainstorm to find innovative solutions. Learn from the experience of others in a friendly, nurturing atmosphere of accountability, support and faith. If you want to learn what it takes to successfully arrive at your entrepreneurial destination, then you need to attend our weekly Every.Black Entrepreneur International Mastermind meetings.

The Global Black History Online course is an eight week course for adults based on the best-selling book, How to Unlock Your Genius Using Black History.

This unique live course, uses narration, stunning graphics, video, multiple choice questions, group discussion and virtual tours.

We meet each week to read and discuss books to learn about entrepreneurship, learn how to apply technology to our businesses and network with like minded individuals from around the world. Listen to and learn from amazing dynamic speakers. Learn a new technology tip each week to implement in your business. Develop a positive mental attitude to accomplish your goals. Brainstorm to find innovative solutions. Learn from the experience of others in a friendly, nurturing atmosphere of accountability, support and faith. If you want to learn what it takes to successfully arrive at your entrepreneurial destination, then you need to attend our weekly Every.Black Entrepreneur International Mastermind meetings.

The Zinn Education Project hosts the Teach the Black Freedom Struggle online classes at least once a month (generally on Mondays) at 4:00 pm PT / 7:00 pm ET for 90 minutes. In each session, a teacher interviews the historian and breakout rooms allow participants in small groups to meet each other, discuss the content, and share teaching ideas. We designed the sessions for teachers and other school staff, however, we welcome parents, students, and others.

Racism is at the forefront of all conversations today in this country. America was built upon racism and is a part of all systems and structures. In order to eliminate racism, white America must solve this problem. The Black community is critical in giving whites and other non-Blacks the real history and the Black experience.

The first step is to acknowledge white privilege. To do that, we invite you to join us and take the "White Privilege Test" during "Come Meet A Black Person" networking event where non-Blacks interact genuinely with a group of diverse Black people. "Come Meet A Black Person" is an open forum for human beings to start better relationships with each other across our cultural and racial differences.

The Global Black History Online course is an eight week course for adults based on the best-selling book, How to Unlock Your Genius Using Black History.

This unique live course, uses narration, stunning graphics, video, multiple choice questions, group discussion and virtual tours.

Each month, our members and guests select a book to read and discuss on the first Saturday of each month.

About this event

Black Professional Men, Inc. (BPM)BPM (www.bpminc.org) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Baltimore, Maryland. BPM was established in 1991 to address the social, economic, and political awareness needs of the African-American community, especially those of the African-American male. The motto of BPM is “Ensuring the Future of the African-American Male”.

Each month, our members and guests select a book to read and discuss on the first Saturday of each month.

THIS EVENT IS FOR COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS LOOKING FOR EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING SURROUNDING THE KWANZAA HOLIDAY. NOT THE GENERAL PUBLIC.

Learn about an uplifting holiday that is celebrated by over 30 million people worldwide and was created here in America during the 1960’s.

Kwanzaa is an African American holiday which celebrates family, community and culture.

Did you know that Kwanzaa is a non-religious celebration and does not conflict with Christmas in any way? In fact, many participants celebrate both!

The seven day festival, which begins on December 26 and ends January 1, brings a cultural message of unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility. Music, drumming, the lighting of candles and a feast are all part of the tradition.

We meet each week to read and discuss books to learn about entrepreneurship, learn how to apply technology to our businesses and network with like minded individuals from around the world. Listen to and learn from amazing dynamic speakers. Learn a new technology tip each week to implement in your business. Develop a positive mental attitude to accomplish your goals. Brainstorm to find innovative solutions. Learn from the experience of others in a friendly, nurturing atmosphere of accountability, support and faith. If you want to learn what it takes to successfully arrive at your entrepreneurial destination, then you need to attend our weekly Every.Black Entrepreneur International Mastermind meetings.

Brought to you by the Mellon Just Futures Initiative, this edition of the Reading Room features esteemed author, and one of today's greatest civil rights attorneys, Sherrilyn A. Ifill. Ifill, Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, will shed light on her book, On the Courthouse Lawn: The Legacy of Lynching in the 21st Century. This panel discussion will be moderated by ASALH's own former president Dr. Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham.