The Jayne Avenue Neighborhood Association (JANA) invites you to “Chew, Chat, & Craft” community program in celebration of the Capitol City’s Bicentennial. Meet us at the Margaret Walker Alexander Library (2525 Robinson Road) on Saturday, November 19 at 9:30 a.m. for our social meetup that will not only create a space for learning, but will also provide an intergenerational space for creativity and community engagement.

JANA is partnering with the Bottom Rebuilders and the Margaret Walker Alexander Center on the campus of Jackson State University to provide a look at the past, understand the present, and prepare for the future. “Margaret Walker Alexander is a significant figure to the city of Jackson who stood at the forefront of the Black studies movement, which is key to understanding the important role Black Jacksonians and Black people played in the securing of civil rights. She was a brilliant writer, poet, and educator,” said Supervisor Credell Calhoun, JANA President. “We believe by highlighting Dr. Alexander, we can demonstrate the spirit of the Bicentennial. As she said in an interview, ‘If we understand yesterday, then we know what’s happening tomorrow.’ We can understand what is happening today and what may happen tomorrow by looking back.

We will also bring context to the significance of the library as well as Dr. Alexander’s mural on the front of Hardy Middle School, both situated in our immediate community; share stories of her contributions to the city’s history and culture; and raise awareness about the power of Black women to the overall growth and evolution of the city,” said Representative Zakiya Summers, JANA Secretary.

In addition, JANA will provide craftmaking items for participants to create their own creative piece to close out the 200th Anniversary. Students may enter into an art contest to design their own portrait of what Jackson will look like in the next 200 years. First place will receive $75, second place $50, third place $25, and all winners will remain on display in the library for the
rest of the year.

This event is free and open to the public, and all ages are welcome. “Chew, Chat, and Craft” is supported by a grant from the City of Jackson and The BeanPath. For more information and to RSVP, text 769-224-0554 or email jayneavena@gmail.com.