17th Annual African-American Read-In Celebrates Community, History, and Literacy

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In transformed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium on February 23, 2025, into a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and history. Centered on the themes of community, history, and literacy, the event invited participants to experience the power of the spoken word while honoring the rich contributions of African-American authors, poets, and thinkers.

Ron Daly served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the audience through a meaningful and inspiring program. The Lecanto High School JROTC Color Guard opened the event with the presentation of colors, followed by Adilee M. Barnes’ stirring rendition of the National Anthem. The opening ceremonies concluded with a moving performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Chozen, filling the auditorium with palpable energy.

A Tapestry of Voices and Performances

The program showcased diverse readings that highlighted both historical and contemporary African-American voices:

George Ann Jackson captivated the audience with “We Write,” while Adam Chang shared his passion in “I Reached for a Book.” Keshawn Harrison delivered “For Poets,” and Kamari Harris moved hearts with “Sympathy.”

Young voices made a powerful impact as Colton Wilson read “Saturday’s Child,” Caden Moore performed “Dream Variation,” and X’aeveon Bunch brought “Dream Keeper” to life. Kevon Jefferson followed with “Motto,” establishing a reflective atmosphere. After a musical interlude by the Forest Ridge Owls, Amya Francois delivered “Lineage.”

Delvon Johnson and Elijah Morgan collaborated on “I Am Every Good Thing,” while Donna Lucas gave a stirring recitation of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.” The Journeymen performed an inspiring musical piece before Judy Redd delivered “Holla,” and Colette Nichols-Watson shared her “Fifth Grade Autobiography.”

The literary journey continued with Hunter Robbins’ “Seeds,” Tom Gotterup’s “Mule,” and Ron Daly bringing the character of Boy Willie to life. Earl Barnes moved the audience with “Waiting on a Heartbeat,” while Antoinette St. Martin’s “Now That I Am Forever with Child” resonated deeply.

Laurie Bryant explored intergenerational connections in “Magnitude and Bond,” and classically trained performer Bret Thom delivered a breathtaking rendition of “Amazing Grace.” Nicolette M. Ferguson and Monique Williams collaborated on “Life Dancers,” while Sheila Clark’s “Where I’m From” evoked a powerful sense of identity.

Additional highlights included Cherrietta Prince’s “A Twice Named Family,” Marguerite Beckford’s “Uncles,” and BJ Ezell’s “Reunion.” Roy & Revelation uplifted spirits with a musical interlude before Michael Allen delivered “Surrender Your Hate” and Waymond Glover shared “Why the Willows Weep.”

Honoring Young Voices and Community Support

The event celebrated emerging writers through the Afro-American Club MLK Essay Contest, with Will Lucas presenting awards to Suzie Speight (CHS, 1st place), Carter Cox (CRHS, 2nd place), and Trevor Bowman (LMS, 3rd place).

Vicky Iozzia’s “One Central Truth” reinforced themes of unity, while Bret Thom’s performance of “The Impossible Dream” inspired the audience. The program culminated with young Taylor Jacobs from Forest Ridge Elementary School delivering a powerful excerpt from “I Have a Dream” that earned a standing ovation.

In a surprise presentation, the event’s student readers each received laptops through a generous grant partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Florida—the largest Black-owned business in Florida and a dedicated supporter of education and Black history initiatives—and the Citrus County Education Foundation (CCEF).

A Dedicated Team Behind the Scenes

Chaired by Doug Wright, the organizing committee worked tirelessly to create an educational and inspiring experience. Committee members Earl Barnes, Sandy Counts, Andrea Cuccaro, Ron Daly, Tom Gotterup, Tracy Hadlett, Taylor Keeran, Donna Lucas, Will Lucas, and Karen Slaska collaborated to develop a program that celebrated African-American literary excellence.

Community Partnerships Making a Difference

The event succeeded through partnerships with the Citrus County School District, Citrus County Education Foundation, Citrus Libraries, Friends of the Library – Citrus County, Old Courthouse Heritage Museum, Citrus County Historical Society, Inc., Afro-American Club of Citrus County, Tom Gotterup, Citrus County Chronicle, Honorable Sandy Counts, Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County, Theodore & Patricia Holmes, Democratic Women’s Club of Citrus County, Janice A. Warren, and Willie Joyner.

The 17th Annual African-American Read-In stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature and storytelling in fostering understanding, resilience, and hope. As attendees departed the Curtis Peterson Auditorium, they carried a renewed appreciation for the voices that have shaped African-American history and the stories that continue to inspire future generations.

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