The Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library hosted their annual Book Fest and Juneteenth Celebration on June 17th. Poets, visual artists, storytellers, musicians, and book clubs came together to emphasize cultural literacy! Featured speaker was Galveston native Fay Williams, Esq. in a moderated conversation about the history of Juneteenth. In addition, attendees enjoyed a 360 photobooth with DJ IN4RED and activities for kids in the Learning Curve. This is an annual event and we look forward to celebrating with you again in 2024!
Learn more about Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the complex series of announcements, documents, and events that eventually lead to the passage of the 13th amendment, on our blog post, which includes informative links and reading recommendations.
Celebrate Juneteenth with culinary creations, both traditional and modern! Each title contains recipes that call back to African heritage, African-American history, and long-held traditions of eating red foods for health, happiness, and celebration. Add something new to your Juneteenth table with these delicious offerings below. Happy Cooking!
The ultimate Juneteenth cookbook, packed with recipes like Beef Ribs with Fermented Harissa, Molasses Glazed Chicken Thighs, and Ginger Pound Cake! You won't be disappointed with any of the offerings. If you find yourself flustered at the thought of making your own sauces or marinades, the author provides handy dandy wisdom and recommendations to carry you along on your culinary journey. She provides lists of BIPOC companies (who make fabulous sauces, rubs, and other mixes) to support your quest to have the perfect Juneteenth table.
Not only will this book encourage you to be a better chef, but it will also help you take chances with your cooking that you hadn't previously entertained. With more than 125 recipes celebrating the African Diaspora, "My America" will leave you and your family smiling. There's a reason why this book won Bon Appetit's Best Book of the Year Award!
Ghetto Gastro is a culinary collective that celebrates Black culture, using food as a means to speak out about issues like race, inclusion, equity, and accessibility. They focus on access to food and knowledge of cooking and how both aspects can lead to power, lifting up both individuals and their communities. This book is their manifesto and centers on food as a means of nourishment and advancement. The recipes and writing will positively knock your socks off. This is one title that's not to be missed!
The Indy Book Fest & Juneteenth Celebration is sponsored by the Library's African American History Committee in support of the Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library.
