The Center for New England Culture is sponsoring the 8th annual Black New England Conference, which takes place on October 25 and 26, 2013 in Huddleston Hall on the UNH campus in Durham. This year's conference investigates the significant roles Black women have played and continue to play in shaping the history, culture, and image of New England as a region. Using the theme of "Self-Invented Black Women: Navigating Race, Space and Place" the conference will explore ways in which Black women have transformed the American landscape through education, the arts, literature, politics, and notable historical movements and events. This year's keynote speaker will feature Sheryl Lee Ralph, an award winning actress and activist to our New England communities. Although most noted for her role of Dena Jones on the landmark Broadway musical Dreamgirls, Ms Ralph is also a health advocate and the director of DIVA (Divinely Inspired Victoriously Anointed) Foundation, focused on HIV/AIDS awareness.
