Listeners of the Reader of Black Genius podcast are in for a treat as Derrick Young chats with Paul Coates, a pivotal figure in black publishing and the founder of Black Classic Press. Coates takes us on a journey through his life, starting from his days as a member of the Black Panther Party to becoming a champion of black literature. He articulates the profound influence that various authors have had on him, particularly in shaping his understanding of identity and resistance through the written word.

The conversation is rich with humor and insightful anecdotes, as Coates recounts his experiences of navigating the challenges of establishing a black-owned publishing house in a landscape dominated by white publishers. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the necessity of having black voices in literature to combat the narratives that have historically marginalized them. Coates' wisdom shines through as he discusses the legacy of black books, framing them as sacred texts that hold the keys to understanding black history and culture. The episode not only serves as an homage to the past but also as a call to action for future generations to continue the fight for representation in literature. Coates' passion for books and their power to inspire change resonates deeply, leaving listeners motivated to embrace and uplift black literature in their own lives.

Takeaways:

• Paul Coates emphasizes the critical importance of controlling our own narratives through literature and publishing.
• Engaging with black literature not only connects us with our history but also empowers our community.
• Books serve as the sacred treasure houses of our culture, holding the keys to our identity and legacy.
• The conversation highlights the necessity of supporting black-owned publishing and printing to ensure representation in literature.

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Derrick Young and Anthony T. Browder engage in a profound conversation that navigates the intersections of history, education, and identity. Browder, a self-taught cultural historian, shares insights from his 35-year journey studying ancient Egypt, emphasizing the critical role that self-education plays in reclaiming African heritage. The discussion highlights the influence of foundational texts and notable scholars, illustrating how these works sparked Browder's passion for history and shaped his mission to educate others about their roots.

Browder recounts his upbringing in Chicago, where systemic barriers often obscured the rich narratives of African history. He stresses the importance of understanding one’s heritage as a means of empowerment and identity formation. Throughout the episode, he articulates the necessity of community engagement and collective learning, advocating for initiatives like the Wisdom Wednesdays lecture series, which serve to educate and inspire. The conversation culminates in a powerful call to action for listeners to delve into the wealth of African history and literature, reinforcing the idea that knowledge is a vital tool for liberation and cultural reclamation.

Takeaways:

• Anthony Browder emphasizes the importance of self-education in understanding our heritage and history.
• The conversation highlights the influence of key texts like 'Introduction to African Civilization' on Browder's journey as a historian.
• Browder discusses the impact of cultural circles in promoting knowledge and combating misinformation within the African diaspora.
• The podcast underscores the necessity of reclaiming our history to empower future generations and build a better future.
• Browder shares insights on the connection between ancient Egyptian wisdom and modern thought, demonstrating the continuity of African knowledge.
• The importance of community engagement and proactive education in addressing contemporary challenges facing African Americans is a central theme.

Suggested Reads:

• From the Browder File by Anthony T. Browder
• Introduction to African Civilizations by John G. Jackson
• SBA: The Reawakening of the African Mind by Asa G. Hilliard
• They Came Before Columbus by Ivan Van Sertima
• African Origins of Major Western Religions by Dr. Yosef Ben-Jochannan
• The ISIS Papers by Dr. Frances Cress Welsing
• As a Man Thinketh by James Allen

Use the coupon code GENIUS to save 10% on these titles.

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In our latest episode, we sit down with Dhonielle Clayton, whose literary works have captivated readers across the globe. She reflects on her upbringing in a close-knit family that valued literature, sharing how her father's love for books shaped her own passion for storytelling. Clayton discusses the challenges she faced in the publishing industry, particularly as a Black author, and how these experiences inspired her to advocate for inclusivity and diversity through organizations like We Need Diverse Books. We explore her entrepreneurial spirit as she leads Cake Creative and Electric Postcard Entertainment, working to ensure that diverse voices are not just heard but celebrated in the literary world. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of creativity and activism, revealing how Clayton's journey is not just about her success but about paving the way for future generations of writers.

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