Rhode Island’s Black History Month kicks off with the 30th annual Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading on February 2. The event runs from 1-3 p.m. at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Auditorium in Providence, featuring a mix of readers sharing Hughes’ poetry.
April Brown and Kai Cameron, the event’s co-directors, highlight Hughes’ impact beyond the Harlem Renaissance. They note that his writings play a key role in teaching equity, sparking important conversations, and bringing together a diverse audience.
The lineup includes students, community leaders, artists, and educators, with RISD President Crystal Williams among the readers. Rhode Island Poet Laureate Colin Channer will present a specially commissioned poem for the occasion, while the Leland Baker Trio provides musical accompaniment.
Other highlights include a performance by Astro Mama and a silent auction featuring Harlem Renaissance collectibles and artwork by Bob Dilworth.
The event is free and open to everyone.
This year’s reading is supported by sponsors and grant partners including the Providence Human Relations Commission, the Rhode Island Foundation, United Way of Rhode Island, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, and the Rhode Island Black Storytellers.
For more information on the event, click here.
