On March 21, 1924 (100 Years Ago) marked a pivotal day in African American culture.  This day symbolized the artistic and cultural synergy for Black creators of the Era. On that evening, a landmark event took place: The Civic Club Dinner in New York City. Hosted by Charles S. Johnson, editor of Opportunity, this gathering brought together a remarkable assembly of Black and White intellectuals, artists, and writers, including W.E.B. Du Bois, James Weldon Johnson, Langston Hughes, and Countee Cullen. The Civic Club Dinner is often viewed as a key moment of recognition and celebration for Black creatives in America, serving as an early acknowledgment of the cultural and artistic movement that would soon flourish as the Harlem Renaissance.
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• Bridging Black and White Literary Communities – The event united Black writers with prominent publishers, critics, and patrons, breaking racial and social barriers of the time. This exchange facilitated crucial relationships and opportunities that helped Black artists gain wider exposure and support in the literary and arts communities.

• Public Recognition of Harlem’s Talent – The dinner celebrated Black creativity and heralded a new era in African American arts. This acknowledgment from both Black and White intellectuals offered validation and encouragement to many artists, reinforcing their sense of purpose and bolstering their resolve to pursue their craft.

• Langston Hughes’ Impactful Reading – At the event, a young Langston Hughes recited his now-famous poem “The Negro Speaks of Rivers.” His reading captivated the audience, and Hughes quickly became a symbol of the Harlem Renaissance’s spirit, creativity, and resilience. This moment helped launch his career and solidify his role as a leading figure of the movement.