College Invites Community to Join African American Read-In on Feb. 22

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African American Read-In

MCC's African American Read-In will be on February 22 in MCC's Blue and Gold Room.

Attend to share your favorite reading or just simply listen to some inspiring passages

In celebration of Black History Month, Muskegon Community College (MCC) will again host the community African American Read-In on February 22. All are welcome to attend the event to read a 2-5–minute excerpt from an African American author or simply listen to the words of some of our country’s most important authors. 

The event is part of the National African American Read-In, which is sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). The tradition was begun by the Black Caucus of the NCTE during the 1980s as a corrective measure: Black writers had traditionally been omitted from the American literary canon, that body of literature which is representative of the national experience and is typically taught in schools and colleges. 

“This is the opportunity to raise your voice and be heard,” explains MCC English instructor, Dr. Theresa Kanoza, who coordinates the annual event.  “The African American Read-In allows us to continue the important tradition of reading from and listening to poetry, fiction, song lyrics, speeches, and letters by African American writers—world famous and lesser known.” 

For those looking for inspiration, Kanoza suggests selecting material from the Poetry Foundation’s “Celebrating Black History Month” collection, available at www.poetryfoundation.org/collections/101640/celebrating-black-history-month. Additionally, MCC librarians are eager to connect readers with materials through the Henrik Meijer Library.     

Refreshments are provided during the 2:30-3:30pm event, which is in the Blue and Gold Room at MCC’s main campus.  The event is one of several activities the College offers during Black History Month. Information is available at https://www.muskegoncc.edu/community-outreach/black-history-month. 

MCC offers over 80 areas of study and a variety of community resources including a gallery, planetarium, natural area, science museum, health and wellness center, and golf course. Visit www.muskegoncc.edu to learn more.