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A Gathering to Celebrate Juneteenth – Poetry & Justice: Continuing the Conversation in Rhyme Waiting List

Poetry, an inspired use of words, enables us to grasp 

the immeasurable in the quest for human dignity in the 

midst of sheer life. Poetry discloses ways of seeing, ways 

of doing, ways of being.  Poetry is a distillation of eternal 

verities; poetry reveals but does not instruct; poetry quickens 

sensibilities setting forth a disquietude, an active musing, 

as it calls for a rising up to humanity.

Poetry is an exact window for viewing the event of 

Juneteenth and its significance in this present moment.
 ~Tom Kilbourn

Gather with us on the Library’s lawn to celebrate Juneteenth in a poetry reading and discussion led by  Tom Kilbourn, ordained Episcopal priest and retired Joel Barlow High School English teacher.  We will read, enjoy and discuss poetry to honor the day.  Prior to the event, please read or listen to the collection of poetry compiled by Tom especially for the day.  Click here for poems. 

Refreshments will be served.

This discussion is part of the Conversations Series which was created in partnership by the Redding League of Women Voters and the Mark Twain Library in an effort to offer our community the opportunity to continue the conversation on race.  Community members can exchange ideas, hear differing perspectives, and talk about race.

THIS PROGRAM WILL TAKE PLACE OUTSIDE UNDER OUR TENT, RAIN OR SHINE.  PARTICIPANTS ARE ASKED TO PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING.

If you include your cell phone number on the registration form, you will also receive one text reminder approximately 30 minutes before the program begins.