Writers let loose at annual Black Cultural Center Haraka Fest
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The production, which is free and open to the public, begins at 7 p.m. in the Black Cultural Center at 1100 3rd St. The theme is "If I Were to Save the World …" The group is directed by Khari Bowden, also known as Khari B., an artist-in-residence skilled in the discipline of African-American creative writing.
"With all of the things that we see wrong with our world today, not enough of us speak with any confident certainty on how we can improve these things on an individual level," Bowden said. "Not only will Haraka Fest give air to these problems, but it also will present tangible and personal solutions from the minds of this growing and ever-evolving ensemble of artistic scholars."
Members of Haraka Writers include graduate and undergraduate students who are studying American studies, biology, engineering, management and public health.
"I am so pleased with the body of work that Haraka has produced this school year," Bowden said. "Fear and reservation have been replaced with a visible confidence. They're having fun now, which is translating so well to the audiences. This annual event is packed with a positive pertinent purpose, and is going to be something to see."
Student coordinator Kelly Richardson, a sophomore majoring in management from Indianapolis, said views vary from bleak and grim to gleeful and great.
"The poetry group has grown in unity, experience and excitement in anticipation for this show," Richardson said. "It will truly be a magnificent experience for all who come."
Musicians from within the ensemble will accompany the speakers. This event also will include their latest chapbook, or collection of pieces, that includes work from the production.
Haraka Writers began in 1973 under the name Creative Writers Workshop. Five years later, the name was changed to Haraka, a Swahili word that means "expression." They represent one of four performing arts groups at the Black Cultural Center.
For information, contact BCC assistant director Bill Caise, (765) 494-4630, wpcaise@purdue.edu.
Writer: Maggie Morris, (765) 494-2432, maggiemorris@purdue.edu
Source: Renee Thomas, BCC director, (765) 494-3092, rathomas@purdue.edu
Bill Caise, (765) 494-4630, wpcaise@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu
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