According to the Nation's Report Card:

A significantly higher percentage of African American fourth graders than the overall 65% do not read on grade level, with figures often showing around 70-80% of Black fourth graders falling below proficiency in reading; meaning a large portion of the "below grade level" fourth graders are African American.

According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP):

A sector of the U.S. Department of Education, 84 percent of Black students lack proficiency in mathematics and 85 percent of Black students lack proficiency in reading skills. 

According to the Sentencing Project:

Despite long-term declines in youth incarceration, Black youth remain vastly more likely to be incarcerated than their white peers. Black youth are almost five times as likely as their white peers to be held in juvenile facilities.

According to the Sentencing Project:

Forty-two percent of youths in placement are Black, even though Black Americans comprise only 15% of all youth across the United States. Among all states with a population of at least 8,000 Black youth, (between 10 and 17), a cutoff that allows for meaningful comparisons, Black youth are more likely to be in custody than white youth.

According to Literacy Mid-South:

85 percent of all juveniles who interface with the juvenile court system are functionally low-literate.

Juvenile incarceration reduces the probability of high school completion and increases the probability of incarceration later in life.

Top Key US Literacy Statistics according Above and Beyond Therapy:

14% of adults in the US can't read.

21% of adults in the US read below a 5th-grade level.

19% of high school graduates in the US can't read.

70% of inmates in the US prison system can't read above a 4th-grade level.

Other Key US Literacy Statistics according Above and Beyond Therapy:

45 million adults in the US are functionally illiterate.

50% of adults in the US can't read a book written at an eighth-grade level.

75% of Americans who receive food stamps perform at the lowest two levels of literacy.

What are the dates of this year’s Festival?

Friday, August 1st - Children’s Book Fest

Saturday, August 2nd - Honoring Ceremony

Sunday, August 3rd - Film Screening

What is the dress code?

While there is not a specific dress code, we recommend summer nautical fashion. Think yacht attire. For men derby hats, seersucker or linen suits, boat shoes or sandals. For the ladies, a nice summer dress, a big hat if you choose, sandals. Be you! Be comfortable! Be Sag Harborlike darling!

Are children permitted to attend?

Yes, Friday’s Children’s Book Fest is for children of all ages. While the Children’s Fest is FREE, registration is a MUST. However, we do not permit children inside of the yacht club in the presence of alcohol. All parents/guardians are responsible for monitoring their children. The Black Authors Festival, the venue, nor its affiliates are responsible for children.

Will I receive a partial refund if I arrive late, due to parking or traffic?

We encourage all guests to arrive early so that they may secure parking and endure traffic. The Festival has a no refund policy.

Are there any discounts available for students or seniors?

Yes, we offer Early Bird Ticket rates for a limited time. Please be reminded that the Festival is a fundraiser.

Will you have food at the Festival?

Yes, food is included in your ticket price. Is not necessarily the case for the Film Screening on Sunday.

What time does the Festival begin?

The doors open at 4:00pm for General Admission. Earlier for VIP Guests.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

Advance ticket sales only

Does the Black Authors Festival President speak at conferences and literacy events?
Darlene Williams, the President and Founder of the Black Authors Festival is available to speak at conferences and literacy events. In order for Mrs. Williams to participate, her expenses must be covered and a donation to A Father’s Love Personal Development and Community Services is suggested. If you want to set up an engagement, please call her office at 934-217-3901 or email her assistant at pconnorthlm@gmail.com.

If I am interested in having an author associated that I see on your website visit my institution, how do I get in touch with them?
The authors associated with the Black Authors Festival can be reached through their respective websites and/or publishers. Please contact them and their publishers directly if you would like to schedule a visit.

How can I make a contribution to A Fathers Love Personal Development and Community Services?
A Father’s Love Personal Development and Community Servvices is a not-for-profit organization with 501(C)(3) status. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation, please send your check or money order made out to the A Father’s Love Personal Development and Community Services to the address below.
P. O. Box 900346 Far Rockaway, NY 11690

You can also choose to securely donate online at www.afatherslove54.com.

How do I become a sponsor?

We have several sponsorship opportunities (subject to change without notice). Financial (various levels) and In-Kind (must be able to provide a minimum of 250 inserts). send your letter of interest with all details and email to nationablackauthorsfestival@gmail.com. We will get back to you if your sponsorship is in alignment with our mission and vision.

What COVID-19 safety measures will be in place at Black Authors Festival?

We are strong proponents of good health and recommend that you wear a mask if you're coughing and please stay home if you are experiencing any illnesses whatsoever.

I am interested in becoming an author in one of Darlene’s Anthology Series. What steps do I need to take?

Please email her assistant at pconnorthlm@gmail.com

How do I become an Ambassador?

Please complete an application and if your credentials are in alignment with our needs we will contact you.

Does the Festival Have Security?

Yes, there will be armed and unarmed security officers throughout the venue.

Security Screenings

The Black Authors Festival reserves the right to include the following security measures: perform body wand, bag checks, checkpoints at various entrances, random bag checks, and other measures to ensure that all guests, Ambassadors, staff, etc. are safe.

Prohibited Items Include, but are not limited to:

Alcohol banners bearing advertisements banners and clothing that are offensive and/or in poor taste (based on our judgement) laser pointers professional cameras camera equipment selfie sticks whistles Anyone who does not adhere to the BAF policies will run the risk of being removed from the premises and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law without compensation

Is the Venue Wheelchair Accessible? Yes

I’m approved for a Press Credential. When, where, and how do I pick up my Press Credential?

Press credentials will ONLY be available for pick up at the 2025 Black Authors Festival Saturday, August 2nd at the Yacht Club. If you are covering the Film Screening on Sunday, you will pick up those credentials on Saturday as well. All press conference and media credential pick-up information will be available in confirmation emails. You will be required to show your confirmation email along with a form of identification (government issued or passport) in order to receive your credential.

If I am no longer able to attend, am I able to transfer my Press Credential to another colleague?

Press credentials are non-transferable.

What type of access will the Press Credential grant me?

You will receive a press confirmation package once you are approved that will include access information, itinerary, interview availability, etc.

Am I able to request a Press Credential on-site?

No

When does the Press Credential application close?

July 9, 2025

How long does the Press Credential approval process take?

Please allow seven (7) business days from the time of submission.

How do I request a Press Credential?

Click the registration link below to request a press credential.

DISCLAIMER: This is a registration and NOT a confirmation. You will receive a confirmation email when your request is approved. You will need the confirmation email and a form of identification in order to pick up your press credential on July 9th to access the Press Conference. If not approved for media credentials, you will also receive a notification response via email.

https://www.blackauthorsfestival.com/media-registration

Does my Press Credential admit a plus one?

No, each press credential only admits ONE.

I just received my Press Credential confirmation email, how do I go about booking accommodations?

Accommodations should be booked by the individual attending, on your own. Black Authors Festival will not reimburse travel and associated lodging or travel costs.