Virginia State University is set to welcome an extraordinary lineup of scholars, artists, and literary giants for the Second Triennial James Arthur Baldwin International Symposium, headlined by the legendary poet Nikki Giovanni as artist-in-residence. 

The three-day event, starting Oct. 24, promises to immerse attendees in the legacy of Baldwin through thought-provoking discussions, readings, and cultural reflections.

This year’s symposium, themed “The (Un)Cowardly Lion with the Unapologetically Clarion Voice,” will honor Baldwin’s lasting legacy through readings, discussions and keynote speeches.

 Nikki Giovanni
 

Giovanni, a distinguished emerita professor at Virginia Tech, is widely recognized for her literary achievements and has received numerous awards, including the 2022 Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize and several NAACP Image Awards.

The symposium will take place over three days at two locations: the Petersburg Public Library’s Conference and Event Center for the first two days and VSU’s Gateway Event Center on the final day. Featured speakers include prominent intellectuals such as Molefi Kete Asante, chair of Africology and African American studies at Temple University, and Maulana Karenga, creator of Kwanzaa and chair of Africana studies at California State University, Long Beach. Award-winning filmmaker and Morgan State University associate professor MK Asante also will participate.

Daniel Jason Baldwin, nephew of James Arthur Baldwin, will offer a centennial reflection on his uncle’s legacy as one of the most influential writers and activists of the 20th century.

“Baldwin’s body of work stands out in the literary canon as one of the most sublime, prolific, and imposing of the 20th century,” said Pamela D. Reed, professor of English at VSU and founding executive director of the James Arthur Baldwin Africologic Institute. “Thus, his works and words are closely examined to pinpoint recurring themes and motifs that, even now, more than three decades since his passing, continue to resonate with — and inspire — generations of thinkers and scholars.”

During the symposium, attendees will have the opportunity to hear readings of Baldwin’s essays, poems, and plays, participate in roundtable discussions, take guided tours and screen the documentary “James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket.”

“This event not only celebrates the profound legacy of one of the most influential literary and cultural figures of the 20th century but also provides an invaluable space for thought-provoking discourse, reflection, and collaboration among scholars, students and the community at large,” said Tia A. Minnis, VSU provost and vice president for academic affairs.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, including the full schedule and lodging options, visit vsu.edu.