Believe Project Comes to Saint Louis University’s Chaifetz Arena

Founded in 2019 by Julius B. Anthony of St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature, the Believe Project “inspires kids to become confident and competent readers before the end of third grade by using culturally responsive books, music, art, and media in spaces where they are free to relax, explore, and be fiercely and fully themselves.” To achieve this, Believe has opened 10 Literacy Labs in schools across the St. Louis region (equipping each with over 1,000 books), donated 30,000 copies of Black children’s picture books and young adult literature to area students, and hosted countless literacy learning experiences with authors, musicians, visual artists, and comedians. 

We are thrilled that our partner school Sister Thea Bowman in East St. Louis is one of those 10 Believe Literacy Labs. And that they were treated to two Believe events last semester. In September, students enjoyed an inspiring visit from Tanisia Moore, author of the book “I Am My Ancestors Wildest Dreams,” which “aims to empower young girls and remind them of their strength.” And in November, the entire school joined over 2,000 Believe students at Saint Louis University’s Chaifetz Arena to hear national award-winning author Jason Reynolds and illustrators and brothers, Jarret and Jerome Pumphrey, discuss their new book, “There was a Party for Langston,” about Missouri native Langston Hughes. Part pep rally, part informative Q&A, it was an engaging event and a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn more about writers and the creative process.

Haga clic aquí para leer este artículo en inglés.