The Black Experience: A Celebration of Culture, Music, and Literature
In a small Burlington coffee shop in 2021, consultant Emiliano Void and poet Rajnii Eddins sat down to discuss the creation of a flagship Black History Month celebration for Vermont. Their dreams were grand, with visions of headliners like Beyoncé and Jay-Z dancing in their heads. While they didn’t quite secure those superstars, the event they birthed, known as the Black Experience, has become a staple in the local community, attracting impressive guests and celebrating Black culture in all its forms.
This year, on February 22, the Black Experience 2025 will feature National Book Award winner Ta-Nehisi Coates and the talented Grammy performers, SistaStrings, as headliners. The event, taking place at the Flynn Main Stage in Burlington, promises a day filled with poetry classes, readings, student project presentations, film screenings, and cultural cuisine. Shuttles will be available to transport attendees from various locations around Vermont, making it accessible to all who wish to attend.
Connecting Civil Rights History and Poetry
One of the many presenters at the Black Experience 2025 is Jolivette Anderson-Douoning, a history professor at Saint Michael’s College. She will lead a discussion that connects civil rights history with poetry, spanning from the time of Paul Laurence Dunbar to modern-day artists like Kendrick Lamar. Poets like Eddins and Toussaint St. Negritude will share their works, while Middlebury College associate professor of dance, Christal Brown, will lead a master class in moving and remembering. The event promises a diverse range of activities to engage participants of all ages and interests.
A Celebration of Music and Literature
SistaStrings, comprised of sisters Monique and Chauntee Ross, will bring their unique blend of classical training and modern music influences to the stage. Winners of the 2023 Instrumentalist of the Year award from the Americana Music Association, the duo has performed with artists like Brandi Carlile and Joni Mitchell, showcasing their talent and versatility in the music industry. Their performance at the Black Experience is sure to captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
Ta-Nehisi Coates, a renowned journalist and author, will join the lineup with his insightful commentary on race, culture, and society. Winner of the 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction, Coates is known for his impactful writing and thought-provoking ideas. His conversation with Traci Griffith, racial justice program director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Massachusetts, promises to be a highlight of the event, shedding light on important issues facing our society today.
As the Black Experience continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to the dedication and passion of its organizers. Void and Eddins, along with a team of volunteers and supporters, work tirelessly each year to bring this celebration of Black culture to life. Their commitment to creating an inclusive and representative event for all Vermonters is truly inspiring and sets the stage for future iterations of the Black Experience.
In a time when discussions about race and representation are more important than ever, events like the Black Experience provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and celebration. By showcasing the talents and stories of Black artists, writers, and performers, the event serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the community. As Vermonters come together to honor and celebrate Black culture, they pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse future for all.
