4th annual literary and arts festival takes novel idea even further.
The 4th annual Tulisoma, a community-based literacy and arts festival is happening August 25-27 at the African American Museum and the Women’s Museum at Fair Park. Tulisoma is Swahili for “We read.” A goal of the free event is to invite a cross-section of people to celebrate African American heritage and patronize the businesses and cultural attractions of the area.
Tulisoma began in 2003 as the dream of Dallas City Councilman Leo V. Chaney, Jr., who wanted to share his district’s distinct character and generate economic development. Working with cultural advocates who wanted to promote literacy and a love for reading among all ages, Tulisoma was embraced by the community and quickly became a must for local residents and visitors to Dallas.
Noted African American authors will pass along their passion.
Nationally acclaimed African American authors and exciting workshops for children, teens and adults highlight Tulisoma. Avid readers and aspiring writers have a rare chance to meet such respected luminaries as master mystery writer Walter Mosley (best known for his private investigator hero, Easy Rawlins), illustrator Kadir Nelson and Alice Randall—the only African American woman to write a Number One country song, as well as the brutally funny Gone with the Wind parody, The Wind Done Gone.
Tulisoma has become so popular that this year, it has expanded to three days, adding a Writing and Art Competition for children in grades 2-12. Younger children can write an essay or create a work of art based on artist Kadir Nelson’s books. Teens and young adults are invited to compose an essay or do an original work of art based on young adult author Alexus Rhone’s books, Premature Pleasures and Backseats and Bleachers. Ms. Rhone will make an appearance.
“Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy national authors and connect with Dallas’ regional writers and reading enthusiasts of African American literature and culture!” says Miriam Rodriguez of the Dallas Public Library, one of the event coordinators.
South Dallas—especially Fair Park—is that much brighter as Tulisoma continues to fuel a burning desire to read, write, create, reach for higher education and better the community. It’s one festival that will make a difference for many generations to come.
For more information on Tulisoma, visit www.tulisoma.com.
