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The Lives & Works of George Schuyler, Richard Wright, Paul Robeson, Margaret Walker & Jean Toomer

Presented by PGC Poet Laureate, Dr. Khadijah Ali-Coleman

This National Poetry Month event will explore the lives and legacies of key Harlem Renaissance figures: George Schuyler, Margaret Walker, Paul Robeson, and Jean Toomer. The discussion will highlight their significant contributions to shaping America’s cultural and artistic landscape.

George Schuyler: Primarily known as a writer, Schuyler was a journalist, novelist, and social critic. His literary work often focused on race relations, African American identity, and politics. He was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance but also a controversial critic of racial segregation and discrimination.

Margaret Walker: A poet, novelist, and educator, Walker is best known for her poetry that reflects African American culture and history. Her most famous work, Jubilee, is a historical novel based on her great-grandmother's experiences as a slave. She also wrote essays and short stories exploring African American identity.

Paul Robeson: A multifaceted artist, Robeson was a renowned singer, actor, and activist. He performed in Broadway productions and films, and his deep, rich voice earned him fame as a concert singer. Robeson also used his platform to advocate for civil rights, labor rights, and global peace.

Jean Toomer: Known for his novel Cane, Toomer was a poet and writer whose work blends modernism and African American themes. His writing explored the complexity of race, identity, and the experience of African Americans in the early 20th century. His work is often seen as a part of the Harlem Renaissance but also transcends it in its experimental style.
These individuals contributed significantly to the arts in literature, music, theater, and activism, with their works continuing to influence discussions around race, identity, and culture.