Join poet and scholar Cameron Awkward-Rich, PhD (Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts, Amherst), in conversation with author and scholar Alexis Pauline Gumbs, PhD (NHC Fellow 2020-21). Awkward-Rich will read from his new volume of poetry, An Optimism (Persea Books, October 2025), an exploration of becoming and identity that highlights Black, trans and other minoritized forms of life. Followed by a conversation between Awkward-Rich and Gumbs, two crucial voices in public and creative dialogue about being together in this fraught moment. 

This event is free and open the to public, but donations are greatly appreciated to help offset the cost of hors d'oeuvresv and drinks. RSVP's are required by 12 noon on November 11th to reserve your spot.

This event is co-hosted by the National Humanities Center and the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice.