Special Collection Now on View for James Baldwin’s Centennial

Special Collections and University Archives presents a new exhibition in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of James Baldwin (1924-1987). An American writer, activist, and visionary, Baldwin’s works explore themes of race, sexuality, identity, and social justice.

Native Son, Global Voice: James Baldwin’s Centennial was curated, designed, and installed by the undergraduate students in Maurice Wallace’s Black Narrative class with support from Special Collections and University Archives. Wallace, a professor and associate chair in the Department of English at the School of Arts and Sciences, made available several items from his personal collection, including publications, documents, photographs, and ephemera. The exhibition also includes books from Alexander Library and prominently features a quilt, Red, White and Baldwin (2015) by Kenya Baleech Alkebu, on loan from Maureen Kelleher.

The exhibition traces Baldwin’s life through the places that shaped his path as a writer and activist. Born and raised in Harlem, he later lived in Turkey and France. As a Black gay man, he navigated the intersecting struggles of racism and homophobia—using his pen to challenge the moral and social hypocrisies of America and the world. Baldwin’s essays, novels, and plays, including The Fire Next Time, Tell Me How Long the Train’s Been Gone, and No Name in the Street continue to resonate with readers, activists, and scholars today.

Native Son, Global Voice: James Baldwin’s Centennial will be on display through February 5 in Gallery ’50, an exhibition space run by Special Collections and University Archives on the first floor of Alexander Library. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.