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, 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 honoring Belafonte, whose work during the Civil Rights era and beyond has left an indelible mark on culture and activism. The issue, guest-edited by award-winning poet 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 portrait of Belafonte, featured on the cover of the Summer/Fall 2025 issue, captures the essence of the activist’s legacy. Mere describes the piece as a tribute to Belafonte’s regality, compassion, and enduring influence on the Black diaspora. The event not only celebrates Belafonte’s contributions but also supports African Voices’ mission to promote art and literature by artists of color, with Spelman College archiving the organization’s art collection for future generations.

African Voices, celebrating 33 years of publication, continues to be a vital platform for artists of color, with past cover artists including Faith Ringgold and Elizabeth Catlett. The magazine’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices underscores the importance of art in social change, making the upcoming exhibition and issue launch a noteworthy event for the community and supporters of the arts.

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