“Afrofuturism” is the theme for “The African American Read-In” at the Calaboose African American History Museum on Feb. 21. Three professors will be discussing the genre in books, graphic novels and film at 12:30 p.m. Prior to the discussion, winners of a student writing contest will be reading their essays on Black authors at 11 a.m.
The first National African American Read In was started in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English in 1990. A “Read-In” can be held in any school, library, home or church, and these are sponsored by educators who are NCTE members. The Read-Ins take place during February, Black History Month.
Diana Garcia, a DeZavala Elementary teacher and Calaboose Museum board member, will be hosting the Read-In for the third year. She also runs an essay contest for area students.
“I sponsor a writing contest to encourage young people to read, write, and to feel the excitement of reading a great book,” Garcia said.
The contest is open to SMCISD students in grades 3-12. Contestants are asked to submit a two-page entry to diana. [email protected] by Feb. 13 at 5 p.m.
Five essays will be chosen to win a $50 gift card, and the student writers will be asked to read their essay at the Calaboose Museum Read-In.
The essay should focus on the student’s favorite African American author. From the entry form: “Who is your favorite Black writer and why? How did their book make you feel? How did you connect to the book? Why is their book important?”
To learn more about the writing contest, email Garcia at diana. [email protected] to receive a pdf of the contest form.
