First USU African-American Read-In launched by Aggie professors Monday
For the first time, Utah State University participated in the annual African-American Read-In on Monday.
The event has been held nationwide since 1990 and aids in the observance of Black History Month.
“The African-American Read-In is a wonderful opportunity for our community to celebrate the legacy of genius we all share,” said Patricia Gantt, English professor and event coordinator, according to a press release.
More than one million readers of all ethnic groups, from 49 states, the West Indies and African countries have participated nationwide, according to the press release.
For USU’s celebration, administration, faculty and students read 15-minute selections by black authors all day Monday.
Phyllis Hall, President Kermit L. Hall’s wife, was a featured reader.
Other participants read selections from black literature, like Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” or Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?”
The program made way for partnerships with local schools, churches, libraries and public radio stations.
Sonia Manuel-Dupont, English professor and event coordinator, planned activities for the outreach part of the read-in.
“The event was phenomenal,” she said.
Since January, Manuel-Dupont had been going to local schools and libraries to talk to them about the program.
“It went great. Some schools asked for our help in the event, and others took on the event on their own,” she said. “The teachers were really excited and the children loved the activities.”
The event will be held annually and the books read will be donated to local libraries, Manuel-Dupont said.
“Our goal is to have the schools hold the event on their own,” she said.
The USU read-in was held in the Taggart Student Center Sunburst Lounge. The Office for Multicultural Student Services also participated.
–lindseyp@cc.usu.edu