On April 9th, join the Newark Public Library for a special celebration recognizing Black Elders of the ‘Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories ‘Portraits of Resistance, Resiliency and Respect’ exhibit, on display at the Newark Public Library until April 30th. Witness an intergenerational exchange between the young and old generations, as First Avenue Elementary students share their multi-module artworks – including dance and art collages – with NJPAC’s Elders Council, a group of prominent Black leaders who are nominated and voted for acceptance into the council. The students will be presenting artwork inspired by the Elders’ experiences, highlighting their wisdom through a beautiful visual and storytelling display.

This powerful showcase, honoring the stories of community elders, is an extension of the ‘Pearls of Wisdom’ Youtube series, a collection of recorded conversations with the Elders Council members, preserving the insights they’ve accrued over their lifetimes for future generations to listen to.

This series is produced by Susan Pope, Ed.D. of Columbia University and the founder of ‘I Dance Because,’ and is informed by NAACP Newark president Deborah Smith-Gregory.

Watch the series…..

“When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground.” – African proverb

How can we face our present, if we don’t know our past? At a time when senior citizens — especially those in communities of color — are particularly vulnerable, we need their wisdom now, more than ever. Watch our monthly series of conversations with Elders in our community, as they share the insights they’ve accrued over their lifetimes and offer guidance for navigating a uniquely treacherous time. The Elders in this project are members of NJPAC’s Elders Council —  a group of prominent Black leaders who are nominated and voted for acceptance into the council.

This series is produced by Susan Pope, Ed.D. of Columbia University and the founder of I Dance Because, and is informed by NAACP Newark president Deborah Smith-Gregory.

Visit the ‘Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories’ exhibit at the Newark Public Library

Pearls of Wisdom: Elders’ Stories

“Portraits of Resistance, Resiliency and Respect”

Feb 15 – April 30, 2025 at Newark Public Library

Along with interviewing Black Elders and documenting their stories, NJPAC has been capturing their portraits. These beautiful images were first exhibited at the ‘Kwanzaa Family Festival’ in 2024 and they will continue to be displayed in public spaces so others can know the Elders’ stories and learn from their life experiences.

REGISTRATION

RSVP is required. Register at njpac.org/event/pearls-of-wisdom-elders-stories-portraits-of-resistance-resiliency-and-respect/#register

Newark Public Library

The library is located at 5 Washington Street Newark, NJ 07102 Tel: (973) 733-7813. Learn more at npl.org.

(Mabel Pais writes on Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Spirituality, Business, Education, The Arts and Entertainment, and Cuisine)