August 2, 2024
James Baldwin's 100th Birthday Bash
Time:
4:30 PM-6PM in the auditorium of the Chattanooga Public Library Downtown // Afterparty: 6PM at Matilda Midnight inside The Dwell Hotel
Location:
Cake + Screenings: Downtown Branch of the Chattanooga Public Library - 1st Floor Auditorium, 1001 Broad Street // Afterparty: Matilda’s After Midnight inside The Dwell Hotel, 120 East Street
Cost:
Free and open to the public
Join us and the world in celebration of the 100th Birthday of Literary Luminary, James Baldwin. By paying tribute to Baldwin during this once-in-a-lifetime event, we honor his life's work and inspire future generations to engage with his powerful legacy.
Screenings + Cake + Ice Cream at the Library:
The festivities kick off on Friday, August 2nd at 4:30PM in the auditorium of the Chattanooga Public Library Downtown, located at 1001 Broad Street. This event is free and open to the public!
Guests will enjoy birthday cake and ice cream (while it lasts!) while viewing screenings of several TV interviews and conversations featuring Baldwin, including an excerpt from his legendary 1965 debate with William F. Buckley. In between screenings, there will be readings of Baldwin’s work and open-floor discussions, providing an opportunity to delve into Baldwin's life and works.
Afterparty at Matilda Midnight:
The celebration continues at 6PM at Matilda Midnight inside The Dwell Hotel, 120 East 10th Street. This afterparty will feature a happy hour with the signature drink “The Baldwin,” and local poets will present readings of Baldwin’s work as well as original pieces inspired by him. Attendees can further explore Baldwin's influence while enjoying the intimate atmosphere and performances that highlight his enduring impact on the literary world.
Baldwin, a literary luminary, reshaped the landscape of Black art through his powerful prose and insightful commentary on racial and social issues. Baldwin's eloquence and courage paved the way for discussions on race, identity, sexuality, and inequality, solidifying his enduring importance in shaping the discourse and impact of Black art. We honor his legacy by curating thought-provoking discussions, showcasing diverse voices, and promoting works that delve into the complexities of race, identity, and social justice.
Born in 1924, Baldwin's seminal works, including "Go Tell It on the Mountain" and "The Fire Next Time," continue to resonate, challenging societal norms and offering profound perspectives on the Black experience. Baldwin's audacious spirit and intellectual rigor have left an indelible mark on literature, influencing generations of writers and thinkers.
