The African Americans in WNC conference kicks off Oct. 22 at the YMI Cultural Center with a lecture Floyd McKissick Jr. and a performance by the LEAF Delta House Jazz Band. Admission is free to the two-day event. The second day’s events take place at UNCA.
Here’s the schedule of events:
Thursday, Oct. 22 6:30pm – 8:30pm
YMI Cultural Center – 43 Market St., Asheville
- Reception and special presentation for community service followed by The Jesse and Julia Ray Lecture given by the Honorable Floyd McKissick, Jr.
- A Special Performance by the LEAF Delta House Jazz Band.
- Featuring the Isaiah Rice Photography Collection
Friday, Oct. 23 9:00am to 5:00pm
Alumni Hall in Highsmith Student Union, UNC Asheville
- Morning Panel — 9:00am – 12:00pm
Mr. Kevin Young, Ph.D. Candidate The University of Georgia
“One Family, Black and White: The Saga of a Yancey County Family.” - Ms. Ann Woodford (Author)
“When All God’s Children Get Together: A Celebration of the Lives and Music of African American People in Far Western North Carolina” - Ms. Barbara McRae (Author)
“Slave and Free: The Complex History of African Americans in a Western North Carolina County”
Afternoon Panel — 2:00pm – 5:00pm - Dr. Marcus Harvey
“Ears to the Conch Shell, Feet to the Ancestors: Reimagining Asheville’s Goombay Festival” - Dr. Sarah Judson
“Fulfilling the One Imperative by Any Means Necessary: Desegregation and Race Politics at the Asheville YWCA” - Mr. Gene Hyde and Dr. Darin J. Waters
“People and Place The Isaiah Rice Photography Collection” - Closing Reception
For more information call 828.251.6415
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