Carolina Gold: Black Southern Writers Conference

This year Griot and Grey Owl is bringing together some of the South’s most powerful writers, scholars, and authors—Nnena Freelon, Pierce Freelon, Crystal Wilkinson, Glenis Redmond, Donovan Livingston, Kiana Alexander, Cortland Gilliam, Cedric Tillman, Kelly Starling Lyons, Kamal E. Bell, and many more.

Across three unforgettable days, expect:

Panels & Workshops – Gullah Geechee Legacy & Literature, Freelancing While Black, Kid Lit: Seeds & Sowers, Queer in Publishing, Writing Romance with Southern Grit, and more at the American Underground Durham (9am–5pm).

The Black Southern Book Fair – Saturday, Nov 8 at American Underground (9am–5pm).

Performances & Readings – including a Nikki Giovanni Tribute.

Community & Conversation – Porch Talk with the Elders, a closing brunch, and space to connect.

Schedule Highlights

Friday, Nov 7

- 3:00 PM – Gullah Geechee Legacy & Literature Panel • Discover Durham Visitor’s Center

- 6:30–8:00 PM – Opening Ceremony with Nnena & Pierce Freelon + Crystal Wilkinson • Durham Public Library (doors open at 6 PM, followed by book signing)

- 8:30–11:00 PM – Afterparty & Reception • Durham Hotel Rooftop

Saturday, Nov 8

- 9:00 AM–5:00 PM – Workshops, Panels & Talks • American Underground

- 9:00 AM–5:00 PM – Black Southern Book Fair • American Underground

- 8:00–10:00 PM – Griot Gold Slam • American Underground

Sunday, Nov 9

- 9:30–10:30 AM – Sound Bowl Meditation • Durham Central Park

- 11:00 AM – Porch Talk Brunch with the Elders & Closing Brunch featuring Willa Bingham, Isaac Green, - Mitch Capel & Nnena Freelon • Downtown Durham ( check website for location)

- Closing Book Signings & Meet & Greet