Afrofuturism Fest - Black History in Visions of a Black Future

Saturday, May 17, 2025

Starting at 11:00 a.m.

Durham County Main Library - 300 N. Roxboro St

(Kickoff the weekend with a double feature, Friday evening, before Saturday's panels! < Click link for details)

Join Durham County Library and Color of Fandom for celebration and exploration of the history, evolution, cultural relevance and modern interpretations of Afro-Futurism both as a movement and as a genre.

Featured panelists/moderators include Jacques Nyemb, Milton Davis, Nicole Given Kurtz, Veronica Henry, Dedren Snead, Darrell Stover, Deborah Ulmer, & Robyn McGlotten.

In collaboration with Color of Fandom and Durham County Library.

Sponsored by the Durham Library Foundation.

Please note registration is not required but is encouraged!

Panel Title: “The Roots and History of Afrofuturism”

Time: 11:00AM - 12:30PM 

Description of panel: This presentation will discuss the origins, evolution and cultural relevance of Afrofuturism as a movement and as a genre including some of the early influences and creators."

Event Title: Book Fair

Time: 1:00PM - 1:45PM

Description of event: Pick up some Afrofuturist reads from our panelists!

Panel Title: "African Mythology, Magic and Mysticism in Science-Fiction, Fantasy and Gaming”

Time: 2:00PM - 3:00PM  

Description of panel: In this panel we will explore African, African-American and Afro-Caribbean mythology and folklore as the basis for genre stories and games (our panelists will also share some of their favorites!)."

Panel Title: "Black Heroes Matter: The Importance of Black Heroes, Leads and Protagonists”

Time: 3:30PM - 4:30PM      

Description of panel: Seeing (and not seeing) Black characters in popular media serve as both a reflection of and an impact on perceptions of Black heroism and valor. Join us for a community discussion of the personal and cultural impact of Black characters across popular media through the ages."

Panel Title: "Black History in Visions of a Black Future”

Time: 5:00PM - 6:30PM   

Description of panel: Historical figures and events have long served as inspiration for dynamic stories of adventure and heroism. In this panel, we will discuss how Black history can serve as a driving force for visions of Black excellence in an imagined futurescape. We’ll also share some favorite stories based on real life historic heroes."