The National Association of Black Bookstores (NAB2) officially declared April 7 as National Black Bookstore Day (NBBD), a first-of-its-kind national observance honoring the cultural, economic, and community impact of Black-owned bookstores across the United States. The day also celebrates the enduring legacy of Georgia “Mother Rose” Peat West, a pioneering figure in Black literary history.
“My mother, Mother Rose, founded and ran Underground Books in Oak Park. This day is deeply personal to my brother and me, it’s a way to honor her legacy and ensure that the stories, voices, and spaces she cherished continue to thrive. National Black Bookstore Day is about more than commerce. It is a declaration that Black bookstores are essential, that they are worth celebrating, and that they are here to stay,” said Kevin Johnson, Founder, National Association of Black Bookstores.
In recognition of the day, the African American Mayors Association, which represents over 500 Black mayors, partnered with its member mayors to pursue local proclamations in their communities – working with mayors, city councils, and legislators across cities and counties nationwide to issue official proclamations recognizing National Black Bookstore Day and the vital role Black bookstores play in their communities.
“For decades, Black bookstores have been the connective tissue in communities across the nation. National Black Bookstore Day gives us a moment to make that visible on a national scale and to remind America that these spaces are not relics of the past, they are pillars of the future,” said Blanche Richardson, Founding Board Member and Owner, Marcus Books.
On April 7, readers and supporters nationwide are encouraged to visit a Black-owned bookstore, make a purchase, share their experience on social media using #NationalBlackBookstoreDay and #NAB2, and help amplify the visibility of Black literary spaces in their communities. A national directory of Black-owned bookstores is available at www.nab2.org to help readers find and support stores in their area.