Orig. Aired on Sept. 12, 2024.

September is Black Reading Month is an observance that began in Detroit in 1980.

The month-long observance encourages readers to explore literary works by Black authors and gain a deeper understanding of Black experiences and perspectives. In 1985, Detroiter Njia Kai introduced the “Turn Off the TV” challenge in tandem with September is Black Reading Month to encourage participants to unplug and immerse themselves in reading.

In recent years, the annual observance has expanded beyond Detroit with activities and celebrations now reaching other states and even international communities. Schools, bookstores, and organizations are hosting lectures, book signings, and reading contests to engage readers and highlight Black voices in literature.

One Detroit contributor and American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson talks with September is Black Reading Month Co-Founder Malik Yakini about the observance’s history, its goals for this year, and literacy issues in America. Plus, Yakini and Henderson recommend books written by Black authors.