Award-winning poet and author Maya Angelou will be the keynote speaker at the 2011 Humanities Symposium, Sept. 14-21.
The theme of the symposium will be “Liberating Voices,” and according to Dr. Caresse John, co-chair of the event, when considering speakers, Angelou was at the top of the list.
“Dr. Angelou’s life work has been about liberating people’s voices and identities from race, gender, economic, and class oppressions. Her internationally acclaimed book, ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,’ is a story that demonstrates the power of telling one’s story,” John said.
Belmont is anticipating a large crowd so tickets will be provided in order to attend her address on Sept. 19.
“We think the entire community will be welcoming, and hopefully they will relish this rare opportunity to interact with such an important, graceful, enlightening individual,” John said.
In addition to the keynote address, Angelou with also participate in a speaker panel the following day.
Other speakers will include Houston Baker, Jr., Nancy Mairs, Kristen Nigro, Rafia Zakaria, Tasha French, Allison Hale, and Becca Stevens.