Dr. Bill Presents: Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance

In this program, we explore the contributions of Langston Hughes, one of the most visible writers of the Harlem Renaissance. Hughes’s work ranged from novels to plays, short stories, children’s books, translations and anthologies as well; however, his most widely appreciated pieces were his poems. After dropping out of Columbia University in 1922, he spent every waking moment in Harlem, supporting himself on odd jobs and writing. His writing reflected the idea that black culture should be celebrated because of its value to the fabric of America and the world. He advocated these beliefs in many of his most famous poems, including “I, Too, Sing America,” “Let America be America Again,” and “Hold Fast to Dreams.” Today, Hughes is recognized as one of the towering figures of American Literature whose accessible poetry challenges us to explore the power of diversity to create unity.

3pm | Tuesday, February 22 | Free, RSVP is required.

To RSVP email rebecca@fhpdx.org or call (503) 224-2640