Voices of Hope and Harmony: The 18th Annual African American Read-In

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, more than 200 attendees and participants gathered at The Miles Teller Theater at the Curtis Peterson Auditorium for the 18th Annual African American Read-In, an afternoon that blended history, literature, music, and community into a powerful celebration of African American voices and contributions.

Master of Ceremonies Ron Daly opened the program by welcoming the audience and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. From the very first moments, the tone was set for reflection, unity, and reverence. The program began with the moving hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often described as a song of faith and hope that celebrates the “harmonies of liberty.” Its message resonated throughout the auditorium, reminding those present of the resilience and enduring spirit woven into the fabric of American history.

The evening featured a wide range of musical selections and literary readings. In addition to “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” attendees joined in the powerful spiritual and protest anthem “We Shall Not Be Moved,” a song rooted in the early 19th-century American South and later embraced by the Civil Rights Movement. The program also recognized performances by the Forest Ridge “Singing Owls,” whose participation in previous years has become a cherished tradition.

Throughout the evening, Mr. Daly provided historical context and insightful commentary, introducing each reader and sharing meaningful details about the authors and the eras in which they wrote. Community members took turns at the podium, including many students from Citrus County elementary, middle, and high schools. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert also participated, underscoring the district’s commitment to honoring diverse voices and ensuring students understand the literary and historical significance of the works presented.

Poetry and Prose from Legendary and Contemporary Voices

The literary selections featured both legendary and contemporary authors whose words continue to inspire conversations about equality, justice, perseverance, and hope. Maya Angelou’s works, including “Prayer” and “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me,” spoke to faith and courage, while the timeless poetry of Langston Hughes with “I, Too” and “Negro Mother” captured themes of dignity and belonging. Nikki Giovanni contributed “A Toast to Poems” and “Rosa Parks,” honoring the Pullman Porters and the broader Civil Rights Movement. Contemporary poet Amanda Gorman offered “Girls on the Rise” and “Something, Someday,” reflecting resilience and the power of young voices.

The program also honored the Civil Rights Movement with excerpts from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech and a poetic tribute titled “Martin Luther King, Jr.” by Gwendolyn Brooks. Themes of empowerment and identity were explored through works by Ketanji Brown Jackson, Useni Eugene Perkins, Georgia Douglas Johnson, Dinah Johnson, bell hooks, and Renee Watson. Legacy and history were represented by Angel Rivers, Clint Smith, Yvette R. Murray, and Rita Dove, while social commentary and faith were highlighted through Ronald Daly, Waymond Douglas Glover, Leslie Pinckney Hill, Ruth Forman, and the enduring words of James Baldwin. Additional works by Frank Horne, Amiri Baraka, and Carole Boston Weatherford rounded out the program’s rich literary offerings.

A Powerful Closing Moment

For many in attendance, the highlight of the afternoon came at the close of the program. Taylor Jacobs of Forest Ridge Elementary School delivered a stirring excerpt from “I Have a Dream.” His confident and heartfelt recitation brought the audience to its feet, earning sustained applause. Year after year, his performance has become a much-anticipated and deeply moving tradition.

Community Support and Gratitude

The success of the evening was made possible through the dedication of numerous individuals. School Board Member Sandra Counts, along with her daughter, Lecanto Middle School teacher Rebecca Clymer, coordinated many of the participating students. Committee Members included Doug Wright (Chair), Earl Barnes, Sandy Counts, Andrea Cuccaro, Ron Daly, Tom Gotterup, Tracy Hadlett, Taylor Keeran, Donna Lucas, Will Lucas, and Karen Slaska.

The event was also supported by valued community partners, including Citrus County School District, Citrus County Education Foundation, Citrus Libraries, Friends of the Library of Citrus County, Old Courthouse Heritage Museum, Citrus County Historical Society, Afro-American Club of Citrus County, Democratic Women’s Club of Citrus County, and the Citrus County Democratic Black Caucus, whose collective commitment to literacy, history, and community engagement helped make the evening possible.

The 18th Annual African American Read-In was more than a program. It was a living testament to the power of words, music, and community to inspire hope, deepen understanding, and honor a legacy that continues to shape our shared future.

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