African Voices Magazine Honors Harry Belafonte's Legacy with Special Issue and Exhibition

African Voices magazine is set to host an opening exhibition for Brooklyn artist Watson Mere and launch a special issue dedicated to the art and activism of Harry Belafonte on July 26, 2025. The event, free and open to the public, will feature contributions from the issue's writers and poets, including Gia Anasi-Shakur, and serves as a fundraiser for the magazine following its defunding by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Publisher Carolyn A. Butts emphasized the significance of Belafonte's legacy, noting his role as an 'Artvist' who used his platform for justice during the Civil Rights era. The issue, guest-edited by Keisha-Gaye Anderson, comes at a critical time for preserving cultural institutions and advocating for access to jobs, education, and affordable housing.

Watson Mere's commissioned portrait of Belafonte for the magazine's cover captures the actor's regality and his enduring influence on the Black diaspora. Mere's work, alongside African Voices' 33-year history of showcasing artists of color, underscores the magazine's commitment to cultural preservation. Spelman College is archiving the organization's art collection, ensuring its accessibility for future generations.

The event not only celebrates Belafonte's legacy but also supports African Voices' mission amid financial challenges. Donations and memberships are encouraged to sustain its work in publishing and promoting art and literature by artists of color. For more information, visit https://africanvoices.com/african-voices-celebrates-harry-belafonte-with-new-issue/.