Some researchers say society perpetuates the idea that a young African-American male growing up poor in a single-parent home without his father may not have the best chance at life. However, this is the humble beginning of activist, motivational speaker, and world-renowned author Kevin Powell.
Redefining society’s meaning of manhood to create a better future for African-American males is what Mr. Powell says inspired him to write several books including The Black Male Handbook: A Blueprint for Life and Open Letters to America. He will explain his premise during Augusta State’s African-American Male Forum on Thursday, Nov. 5.
The forum will begin at 2 p.m. in the Jaguar Student Activities Center Ballroom with Mr. Powell leading an informal discussion on helping African-American males overcome life’s obstacles in order to reach their goals. Following the program, Mr. Powell will hold a book signing in the Ballroom at 3:30 p.m., and he will present a New Directions Community Address in W1002 Science Building at 4 p.m.
According to Mr. Powell, his book The Black Male Handbook is a holistic approach to the development and empowerment of young, black males. He uses a collection of essays that share the themes of surviving, living, and winning. The book also discusses the social and political interest that is rising in the African-American community, especially among African-American males. His next piece, Open Letters to America, is considered to be a celebration of the sudden, mass political engagement of America’s youth. In this book, he shares his thoughts on the historical presidential campaign of President Barack Obama and his hopes of the next generation’s positive effect on America’s democracy.
Throughout his career, the Jersey City native has written essays, articles, and reviews for several publications including Esquire, Newsweek, The Washington Post, Essence, and Rolling Stone. He was a founding staff member and a senior writer for The Amsterdam News and Vibe, and he has had the opportunity to interview Gen. Colin Powell and the late Tupac Shakur. He also was a cast member of the first season of MTV’s reality television series The Real World: New York.
Mr. Powell’s books are now available in ASU’s Bookstore. This event is a part of the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents’ African-American Male Initiative. For more information, call 706-729-2078.
Nov 2, 2009
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