Affrilachian Poet Will Speak February 22

Affrilachian poet Bianca Spriggs will give a free presentation Monday, Feb. 22, at 12 noon in ACTCs J. B. Sowards Theatre at the College Drive Campus.

Her presentation on "The Afro that Ate Kentucky" is focused on the cultural diversity of Kentucky. Her poems draw on her experiences in growing up, living, and working in the Bible Belt and Bluegrass Region. They reflect the challenges and triumphs of Kentucky's history as a border state -- the lore, the people and the land.

Spriggs will also share some insights into the creative process of writing and editing poetry and will give some background on her fellow Affrilachia poets. The term was coined to describe African Americans writers who live in the Appalachian region, and Spriggs will discuss their importance in maintaining diversity among Kentucky writers and audiences.

Spriggs is the author of Kaffir Lily, soon to be published by Wind Publications, and her work can be found in the anthologies Appalachian Heritage Magazine, Torch, America! What's My Name? and New Growth: Recent Kentucky Writings.

She is Events Coordinator for the Lexington Art League and a speaker with the Kentucky Humanities Council Speakers Bureau. She is also a visual artist, workshop trainer, freelance writing and literature instructor. and a Cave Canem fellow.

Her presentation is a Black History Month program sponsored by ACTC. For more information, contact Al Baker, ACTC Director of Diversity, 606-326-2422.