National Black Authors Day was established in Rochester: Here's how to celebrate

Robert Bell, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read

CaTyra Polland noticed a gap in exposure for Black Authors, so the local writer took matters into her own hands and established the first Black Authors Day with the national holiday archives.

May 4th is now National Black Authors Day.

"I wanted to ensure past, current, and future Black authors and writers are encouraged and celebrated," Polland said. "Black literature has touched every corner of the globe. This annual holiday is to uplift Black authors."

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Polland owns Love for Words, an editing boutique for writers and authors. She's published nine books and hosts Editor Knows Best, an international writing and editing podcast for literary professionals. Her favorite writer is Walter Dean Myers, a Black author known for young adult literature.

"I became a writer because of my love for words," she said. "I also use writing for therapy as well. I journal and write poetry which are some of my coping mechanisms. I want to inspire others through my writing."

In Rochester, there will be virtual readings and a small festival at 125 State St. set to begin at 5:30 p.m. that will include speakers, vendors, networking and Mayor Malik Evans as a guest speaker.

Polland stresses that you don't have to be Black to participate in the holiday. All Rochesterians are encouraged to take to social media or head to their local bookstore and check out books by Black authors. The day is meant to unite the city and promote literacy.

Here are seven ways she says people can celebrate:

  1. Read a book by a Black author.

  2. Shoutout a Black author on social media.

  3. Share a quote by a Black author.

  4. Donate a book by a Black author.

  5. Write a thank-you letter to a Black author.

  6. Make a video acknowledging a Black author.

  7. Host an event for Black authors.

Polland considers the realization of the holiday to be the culmination of her career as an activist for authors who have been voiceless in the industry for too long.

Contact Robert Bell at: rlbell@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter: @byrobbell & Instagram: @byrobbell.

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This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: National Black Authors Day created by Rochester writer CaTyra Pollard