Center for Black Literature

Founded in 2002, the Center for Black Literature (CBL)
is dedicated to expanding, broadening, and enriching the public’s knowledge and
appreciation of literature produced by people of the African diaspora. Through
a robust slate of literary programs and educational workshops, the Center
cultivates an engaged audience for the reading, discussion, research, study,
and critical analysis of Black literature. CBL serves the public, students of
all ages, teachers, writers, and artists.

Core Programs:

• 
  National
  Black Writers Conference (NBWC) – A renowned gathering of writers,
  scholars, and readers of Black literature.


• 
  Re-Envisioning
  Our Lives through Literature (ROLL) Youth Program – A literacy and
  creative writing program for young readers and writers.


• 
  Wild
  Seeds Writers Retreat – A nurturing residency for emerging and
  established writers.


• 
  John
  Oliver Killens Reading Series – Readings and conversations with noted
  authors.


• 
  Dr.
  Edith Rock Elder Writers Workshop – A writing program centering the
  voices and experiences of elder writers.


• 
  Writers
  on Writing – A weekly radio program featuring conversations with
  authors.


• 
           Killens Review of Arts & Letters
  (peer-reviewed journal)


• 
  Monthly
  Online Book Club – Engaging discussions of works by writers of the
  African diaspora.

These initiatives advance CBL’s mission to heighten
awareness of the vital contributions that writers, poets, and scholars of the
African diaspora make to the global literary canon. Through this work, the
Center nurtures a vibrant community of young, emerging, and established
writers.

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to cultivating
emerging readers and writers. At a time when literacy gaps disproportionately
affect Black youth—and when books by Black authors are increasingly targeted
and banned from classrooms—CBL’s work is more urgent than ever. Our programs
provide culturally meaningful, identity-affirming educational experiences that
help students and developing writers build confidence, strengthen literacy
skills, and see themselves reflected in literature. Our initiatives also
connect young people and community members with inspiring role models who
demonstrate the transformative power of storytelling and creativity.

Your support ensures that the Center for Black Literature
can continue to nurture creativity, safeguard cultural memory, and champion the
brilliance of African diasporic writers. In today’s political and social
climate, investing in CBL is an investment in access, equity, and the future of
Black literary arts.

To learn more about the Center for Black Literature, our
programming, and upcoming events, please visit www.centerforblackliterature.org
and follow us on social media at Center4BlackLit.