This event is a must-attend for professionals in journalism, social change, and advocacy for a free press because of their profound impact on how we understand and engage with critical societal issues. Michael Harriot, known for his incisive and often humorous commentary on race, politics, and culture, has carved out a niche as a powerful voice in modern journalism. His work at The Root and his popular social media presence have shed light on systemic injustices and sparked meaningful conversations. Jarvis DeBerry, an award-winning journalist and former
columnist for The Times-Picayune, brings a wealth of experience in tackling issues related to civil rights, social justice, and the importance of a free and independent press. Together, their combined expertise and perspectives will offer invaluable insights into the current state of media and its role in shaping public discourse.
Attendees can expect a discussion that is not only insightful and thought-provoking but also deeply inspiring. Michael and Jarvis’s ability to analyze and articulate complex issues with clarity and passion makes their conversation a rich learning experience for anyone committed to social change. Their dialogue will likely address the challenges faced by journalists in today’s media landscape, the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity, and the role of the press in advocating for marginalized communities. By attending this event, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the power of journalism in driving social change and the critical need to support and protect a free press in our society.
About Speakers:
Michael Harriot is a renowned journalist, cultural critic, and author known for his incisive commentary on race, politics, and culture. His work has appeared in prominent publications such as The Washington Post, The Atlantic, and The Guardian. Michael’s unique ability to translate complex racial issues into accessible and often humorous narratives has made him a leading voice in contemporary journalism. His book, Black AF History, offers a fresh perspective on American history through a Black-centered lens, challenging the traditional narratives that have long dominated the discourse.
Jarvis DeBerry is a celebrated journalist who spent over two decades at The Times-Picayune in New Orleans, where he earned a Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for his coverage of Hurricane Katrina. His powerful editorials and columns have addressed critical issues such as social justice, race, and the aftermath of natural disasters. Jarvis’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the National Association of Black Journalists’ Salute to Excellence Award
Book Description:
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * NAACP IMAGE AWARD NOMINEE * AMAZON’S TOP 20 HISTORY BOOKS OF 2023 * B&N BEST OF EDUCATIONAL HISTORY * THE ROOT’S BEST BOOKS OF 2023 * CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2023
From acclaimed columnist and political commentator Michael Harriot, a searingly smart and bitingly hilarious retelling of American history that corrects the record and showcases the perspectives and experiences of Black Americans.
America’s backstory is a whitewashed mythology implanted in our collective memory. It is the story of the pilgrims on the Mayflower building a new nation. It is George Washington’s cherry tree and Abraham Lincoln’s log cabin. It is the fantastic tale of slaves that spontaneously teleported themselves here with nothing but strong backs and negro spirituals. It is a sugarcoated legend based on an almost true story.
It should come as no surprise that the dominant narrative of American history is blighted with errors and oversights–after all, history books were written by white men with their perspectives at the forefront. It could even be said that the devaluation and erasure of the Black experience is as American as apple pie.
In Black AF History, Michael Harriot presents a more accurate version of American history. Combining unapologetically provocative storytelling with meticulous research based on primary sources as well as the work of pioneering Black historians, scholars, and journalists, Harriot removes the white sugarcoating from the American story, placing Black people squarely at the center. With incisive wit, Harriot speaks hilarious truth to oppressive power, subverting conventional historical narratives with little-known stories about the experiences of Black Americans. From the African Americans who arrived before 1619 to the unenslavable bandit who inspired America’s first police force, this long overdue corrective provides a revealing look into our past that is as urgent as it is necessary. For too long, we have refused to acknowledge that American history is white history. Not this one. This history is Black AF.
Event Details:
Address: 2601 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70122
Parking:
Ticket Details >>
Security: Four (4) professional security guards will be on-site (Provided by Baldwin & Co.) Audio/Video Equipment: Two (2) microphones on stage. One (1) microphone for Q&A. A projector screen to display a still image. A podium microphone for introductions. (Provided by Dillard U.) Furniture Required: Floor area rug, two comfortable lounge chairs, coffee table. (Provided by Dillard U.)
Customer Pre-Orders: Pre-ordered books will be issued to customers upon entry by Baldwin & Co. staff at a registration desk prior to entry into Georges Auditorium.
Run-of-Show:
Introductions: 6:00 PM
Author Talk: 6:00 – 6:45 PM
Q&A: 6:45 PM – 7:00 PM
Closing Remarks/Signing Instructions: 7:00 PM – 7:05 PM Book Signing: 7:05 PM – 8:00 PM
Exit: 8:00
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