Authors Speak: The Impact of Race on American Society

Black cultural awareness, or “wokeness,” is a state of being that many believe can be achieved. However, attaining awareness is a journey – a continuous practice, in order to gain understanding. The study and acceptance of black history and culture is an ongoing process that is decided upon and then embarked upon. Everyone is at different points in the journey. Some are exploring it alone. Others join book clubs and study groups, and some enroll in degree programs, or pursue scholarly endeavors. Some are aware of black history and culture and its impact on our society; others are not. And still others have decided not to acknowledge the importance of other cultures at all. They seek, instead, to diminish or eliminate their very existence.

Through their collaboration with The Authors Speak Series, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, Arts Garage and Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have decided to provide an exciting opportunity for those who are on the journey towards greater understanding. The Authors Speak Series is an opportunity to have interesting, enlightening conversations with writers who have cultivated a perspective on black cultural awareness through their research and personal experiences. Together, the Spady Museum, Arts Garage and CRA intend to create more pathways for people to make progress toward understanding others and hopefully welcome more people to join the journey along the way.

“We can always learn something new and hopefully see things from a different perspective. This series offers a space to explore the realities that others experience day to day. Supporting educational initiatives such this shines a light on causes of conditions that can contribute to slum and blight in communities. Hopefully, people will gain compassion for one another from the information shared through these informative talks.” -Renee A Jadusingh, Executive Director of the CRA