Greetings Lover of African American Lit:

I hope this note finds you well. Cleveland Book Week is soon to come. As usual, our Great Lakes African American Writers Conference (GLAAWC pronounced “glossy”) will conclude this esteemed celebration of literature. This year, our theme is “Black Books, Black Business, Black Excellence.” 

Why this theme you ask–especially during the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop? On May 15 The New York Times published “I.R.S. Acknowledges Black Americans Face More Audit Scrutiny.” Do read the article for yourself. In short, African Americans are audited more often than other ethnic groups due to an algorithm that selects tax returns with no or few business expenses. How can this be for such enterprising people? African Americans have always worked and created a livelihood on these shores.

Historically, GLAAWC has always strived to eliminate knowledge deficits for writers. That goal remains. Whether it is writing itself, or the business of publishing, GLAAWC has been a source of insights. Writers, aligned with our theme are entrepreneurs in their practice and essence. 

This year, our 6th Annual program focuses on writers who epitomize the entrepreneurial spirit.  who are authors, playwrights, entrepreneurs, professors, and business executives. The GLAAWC 2023 Team–Kaleiah Veasey, Dr. Carolyn Gordon, Deante Young, Unity Powell, Cori Sykes, JJ Winston, Lauren Moore-Siggers, and Dr. Brenda Smith–are thrilled to present this year’s program.

Do join us on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 10 am to 4:30 pm at the Main Branch of the Cleveland Public Library located at 525 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114. We look forward to seeing you for a wonderful day of presentations, conversation, and book vending. Until then, take care.

Godspeed,