By Natalia Sucre, Instruction and Digital Services Librarian
On the afternoon of June 23, 2021, Students Services and MCNY Library assisted Professor Desi K. Robinson in hosting the Reflect, Rejoice, and Celebrate event in honor of Juneteenth. It was a spectacular occasion, bringing together an audience of 50 and a renowned panel of artists, scholars, and activists: York College (CUNY) Professor Andrew (Sekou Molefi Baako) Jackson; singer/songwriter Lawanna Dean Davis; poet/author Kendall Barksdale; drummer Contramestra Amazonas; and MCNY’s own distinguished Dr. Lessie Branch.
Recording Available: We share the experience of the event here. This is not to be missed!
Prof. Desi K. Robinson best conveys the spirit of the event: “After the year we’ve had –global pandemic, job losses, racial upheaval, physical isolation, death, emotional anxiety– it was so important to create a space that helped us process what we’re beginning to understand about its impact as well as the racial inequity within these experiences. In recognizing the challenge and triumph, I hope this short moment nourished us all.”
Learn more about the wonderful panel in this resource and book guide prepared for the occasion by our own Tina Callender, Evening Reference Librarian. The guide includes a list of Juneteenth readings available at MCNY Library.
Screenshots of artists, all with closed eyes signaling the event’s deep reflection. Top left: Drummer, Contramestra Amazonas. Top right: Poet/Author, Kendall Barksdale. Bottom left: Singer/Songwriter, Lawanna Dean Davis. Bottom right: Professor Desi K. Robinson.
York College Prof. Andrew (Sekou Molefi Baako)
MCNY’s Dr. Lessie Branch
