The Evanston Public Library is set to host two captivating events in August, as part of the Our Roots, Our Stories: Literary Arts and Legacy initiative. These events promise to engage the community through the power of storytelling and artistic expression.
Mark your calendars for two distinct experiences: a personal essay writing workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 4 and a legacy concert on Saturday, Aug. 15. Both events will take place at the Robert Crown Community Center located at 1801 Main St.
Transformative Storytelling Workshop with L’Oreal Thompson Payton
Kicking off the series on Aug. 4 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. the personal essay writing workshop will be led by renowned journalist and author L’Oreal Thompson Payton. This interactive session aims to equip participants with essential storytelling tools to craft compelling personal essays from their everyday experiences.
Attendees can expect to delve into the art of narrative construction, learning how to transform personal anecdotes into powerful stories. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of personal storytelling in a supportive environment.
Legacy Concert: A Celebration of Resistance and Strife
On Aug. 15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. the legacy concert will take center stage, featuring a lineup of talented local Latino artists from Chicago and Evanston. This event promises a rich tapestry of spoken wordpoetry and live music all centered around themes of resistance, hardship, and celebration.
The concert will showcase the diverse expressions of literary forms and how they carry themes of cultural resilience across different communities. Performances will be presented in both English and Spanish with translation provided to ensure accessibility for all attendees.
Featured Performers
The lineup includes a mix of accomplished artists and writers, such as Alfonso “Piloto” Nieves Ruiz the owner of Evanston’s beloved Zentli. Other notable performers include writers Miguel Angel OntiverosIvan RamosMiguel Marzana and Gonzalo Cordova among others.
Each performer brings a unique perspective to the stage, offering a blend of emotional depth and cultural richness. The concert is not just a performance but a celebration of the shared human experience, highlighting the power of art to bridge cultural divides.
For those interested in learning more or needing assistance, contact Mariana Bojorquez at mbojorquez@ or Carmen Francellno at cfrancellno@.
