Welty Gala

The Annual Welty Symposium, a prominent literary event, will showcase the works of celebrated authors and poets, including the Alabama poet laureate Ashley M. Jones, who will deliver the keynote address. Jones, recognized as the youngest and first Black poet laureate of Alabama, will present her new poetry collection titled 'Lullaby for the Grieving.' This year's symposium theme is 'Secrets and Revelations: A Dark Thread Running Through My Story,' inspired by Eudora Welty's novel 'Losing Battles.' Jones's work explores profound themes of family, heritage, and loss, particularly reflecting on her father's passing and the struggles faced by her community. The symposium promises to be an engaging experience, emphasizing the power of hearing authors share their narratives in their own voices.In addition to Jones, the symposium will honor Drea Brown, an associate professor of English at Texas State University, with the Eudora Welty Prize for her scholarly work 'Conjuring the Haint: The Haunting Poetics of Black Women.' The symposium will also feature readings by notable Mississippi poets such as Kendall Dunkelberg, who will read from his collection 'Tree Fall with Birdsong,' and Kathleen Driskell, the Kentucky poet laureate, presenting her work 'Goat-Footed Gods.' Other featured writers include Addie E. Citchens, Robert Busby, Rickey Fayne, and Lauren Rhoades, each sharing their literary contributions that delve into themes of identity, history, and the human experience.The Welty Symposium will also include the recognition of five winners of the Ephemera Prize, awarded to high school creative writers, who will read their entries during the event. All sessions and art exhibits are free and open to the public, further emphasizing the symposium's commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Additionally, the Welty Gala, a fundraising dinner taking place at the James M. Trotter Convention Center, will feature Chef Jeff Henderson, renowned for his inspiring journey from adversity to culinary success, discussing his experiences and achievements. This year's symposium promises to be a memorable celebration of literary art, community, and the enduring power of storytelling.