A Celebration of Afrofuturism as Florida Tech Hosts African American Read-In Friday

MELBOURNE, FLA. — Afrofuturism and its impact on literature and the arts is the focus of the 9th Annual African American Read-In, a free community event from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 at Evans Library.

Sponsored by Florida Tech’s School of Arts and Communication and Evans Library, the read-in has become one of the largest annual celebrations of Black literature on the Space Coast.

“We are really excited about this year’s program,” said Rolanda Hatcher-Gallop, a communication instructor at the university and one of the organizers of the event that in years past has brought in an astronaut, a relative of a Rosewood Massacre survivor, historians and others to talk about and read literature from the African diaspora. “We will introduce Afrofuturism to some while expanding on the concept for others as we delve into how this cultural movement is growing.”

Afrofuturism is the modern expression of Black consciousness and freedom through the use of art, literature, music and other creative works to capture visions of a liberated Black future. Afrofuturism threads itself through the works of writers like Octavia Butler, with her science-fiction visions, to the music of artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Parliament Funkadelic, Andre 3000, Erykah Badu and others.

In addition to highlighting readings, poetry and songs exemplifying Afrofuturism, the program also will feature a keynote address from Clarissa West-White, Ph.D, university archivist and assistant professor at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach. West-White has received a number of accolades for her research and her passion for marrying community activism with literature, art and education.

Attendees may come in African attire or coffeehouse chic as at previous events, but they are also encouraged to attend in cosplay to represent their favorite fantasy, sci-fi or comic book characters, such as Black Panther or Lt. Uhura from “Star Trek.” 

Local chef and author Emunah Y’israel will prepare New Orleans-style offerings, including vegan gumbo and rice, spiced cornbread and carrot cake – dishes that offer fresh takes on what is considered “soul food.”

“This is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about a movement that has gained momentum in recent years but has deep roots in the past,” said Nancy Garmer, interim dean of libraries at Florida Tech and program coordinator for the Cultural Competency Certificate. “We want the audience leaving the read-in understanding what Afrofuturism is and its influence on everything from music to clothing.”

Hatcher-Gallop added that Afrofuturism is really highlighted in popular culture these days, even if people aren’t using the term. “Anyone who watched the Super Bowl Half-Time Show saw the singer Usher wearing clothing that could be worn in the fictional, tech-rich Kingdom of Wakanda. Some of his outfits were Afrofuturistic, in that sense.”

“Everyone is invited,” Hatcher-Gallop said. “This is a chance for the community to share in the rich culture of African-American literature and history.”