Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies Set To Publish More Nigerian and African Writers – Wole Adedoyin

 

CAUCASUS JOURNAL OF MILTON STUDIES SET TO PUBLISH MORE NIGERIAN AND AFRICAN WRITERS – WOLE ADEDOYIN

 

The Milton Society of Georgia, under the visionary leadership of Professor Edward Raupp, Professor of English Language and Literature at Gori State University has announced its commitment to amplifying the voices of Nigerian and African writers in the literary landscape. Following the successful release of Vol. 2 No. 2: June 2023, the Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) will now feature more works from the vibrant Nigerian and African literary community. The recent issue showcased the brilliant poetry of Nigerian Poet Michael Chukwudi, marking the beginning of this inclusive literary journey. The CJMS, published by the Milton Society of Georgia and helmed by Editor-in-Chief Danna Raupp, is an internationally acclaimed, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the life and works of English writer John Milton.

Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) e-ISSN: 2720-8222 (online) is a prestigious platform for high-quality, original research with a focus on manuscripts in English. The journal welcomes submissions of various types, including original research articles, review articles, and poetry inspired by the life and works of John Milton.

In a significant step towards fostering literary diversity, the Milton Society of Georgia, under the guidance of Professor Edward Raupp, played a pivotal role in establishing the Milton Society of Africa last year. As part of their commitment to promoting African literary voices, the Milton Society of Georgia sponsored the inaugural Milton Writers Conference held in Ibadan, Nigeria, and the John Milton Writers Competition.

In the Editor's Note from the Vol. 2 No. 2: June 2023 CJMS, the journal's team expressed their delight in featuring contributions from young women pursuing their Master's Degree in Anglistics at Gori State University. Notably, these remarkable students chose to write their theses in English, marking a groundbreaking moment for the university. The recent issue included English translations of two final miniatures from Niko Lortkipanidze and a short poem by Paolo Iashvili, provided by Eter Churadze. Additionally, the translation section introduced a new contributor, Lela Ebralidze, who presented her scientific research on the renowned American poet, Edgar Allan Poe, delighting readers with her Georgian translation of Poe's beloved work, "Annabelle Lee."

The highlight of the issue was the poetry section, featuring the powerful and thought-provoking poem, "DENIAL," penned by Michael Chukwudi, an author of Nigerian-Indonesian heritage. Chukwudi's poem passionately addressed the prevailing injustice in Nigeria, urging for a restoration of justice and an end to the evils plaguing his homeland.

Wole Adedoyin, the driving force behind the project and President of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), played a significant role in fostering this collaboration. His dedication to promoting literary diversity and providing a platform for African writers has been instrumental in making this endeavor a reality.

The CJMS extends its warm appreciation to all contributors, readers, and supporters, acknowledging that each individual enriches the journal's literary discourse. With a renewed commitment to amplifying African voices and fostering cross-cultural exchanges, the CJMS looks forward to bringing more impactful works from Nigerian and African writers to the forefront of global literary conversations.

For more information and to access the latest issue of CJMS, please visit: https://cjojms.com/index.php/research/issue/view/8

New Research Paper Explores the Power of Artistic Protest and Testimony in "EndSARS Rhythms"

 

NEW RESEARCH PAPER EXPLORES THE POWER OF ARTISTIC PROTEST AND TESTIMONY IN "ENDSARS RHYTHMS"

 

By Wole Adedoyin

A groundbreaking academic paper titled "Poetic Protest and Testimony in Endsars Rhythms" has been jointly authored by Jayne I. Owan and Onyekachi Peter Onuoha from the prestigious Department of English and Literary Studies at the University of Calabar. The research delves into the powerful use of art, particularly poetry, as a medium of protest and testimony during the EndSARS movement in Nigeria.

The paper sheds light on the multifaceted role of EndSARS Rhythms, which serves as both an avenue for entertainment and a medium for documenting the causes of brutalization faced by the Nigerian people, as well as questioning the moral fiber of the society. Amidst threats to life, Nigerians turned to poetry as a potent form of protest to challenge police brutality in the country. The study highlights how art plays a significant role in social movements and resistance to police violence, acting as a vehicle for poetic protest and testimony.

The research involves a comprehensive textual analysis of a digital memorial, revealing how EndSARS Rhythms effectively preserves memory through art while documenting the exploitation and brutality suffered by the youth at the hands of the Nigeria Police Force. It unequivocally establishes EndSARS Rhythms as a poetic protest and testimony against police brutality.

One of the fundamental aspects of the paper is the incorporation of several poignant poems from EndSARS Rhythms that have become a literary testimony for victims of police brutality and survivors in Nigeria. Some of the notable poems featured in the research include “State Armed Robbers Squad (SARS)”  by Frank Kaliati, “EndSARS! LAWMAKERS, OR LAWBREAKERS” by Olude Peter Sunday, “Talk True” by Nkiru Onyeyaforo, “Guns End Dreams” by Olawumi Oluwasogo, “EndSARS” by David Jonathan Inyang, “Homeland in Pain” by Enyia Lilian Nkechinyere, “How Our Lights were Put off” by Nwokeabia, Ifeanyi John, “Spare us! Spare us! By Adaji Elizabeth Mercy, “In Lekki, Heroes Prevailed…” by Merife, Chisom Victor, “To our heroes up” by Adefeyintola Adesegun, “Requiem for victims of Lekki Massacre '' by Chidiebere Enyia, “The night when doves cried”  by Shola Balogun, “Inquest for freedom!”  by Blessing Chinenye David’s  and others.

Through the powerful poetic chronicles presented in EndSARS Rhythms, the movement emerges as a resolute protest against exploitation and brutality within Nigerian society. The poetic narratives eloquently implicate the Nigerian government and police as agents responsible for the subjugation and exploitation of the country's youth. Each poem serves as a witness against the state, condemning the extra-judicial killing of numerous Nigerians.

The significance of the research paper lies in its portrayal of EndSARS Rhythms as a resilient and artistic response to social injustice and oppression. It underscores how the protest movement effectively utilized poetry as a means of expressing grievances, demanding accountability, and advocating for change. The poems themselves become a collective voice of resilience, providing solace to those affected by police brutality and giving hope for a brighter future.

The co-authors, Jayne I. Owan and Onyekachi Peter Onuoha, commend the courage and creativity displayed by the poets in EndSARS Rhythms, and express hope that this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the power of art in shaping social movements.

The full research paper "Poetic Protest and Testimony in Endsars Rhythms" is available via https://jurnal.fs.umi.ac.id/index.php/tamaddun-life/article/view/161 and https://jurnal.fs.umi.ac.id/index.php/tamaddun-life/article/view/161/129.

END SARS RYTHMS edited by Terseer Sam Baki and Wole Adedoyin and published in electronic and paperback by the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) in New York, USA. It was a collaborative effort of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers, SYNW, and the International Human Rights Arts Festival, IHRAF, to harness the thoughts, feelings and responses of Nigerian artists and creative writers and the international writing community on the theme of police brutality, assault and battery.

IHRAF Announces New Book, “From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent”

 

IHRAF ANNOUNCES NEW BOOK, “FROM AFRICA WITH LOVE: VOICES OF A CREATIVE CONTINENT”

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) has announced the release of its latest publication, "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent." Curated and edited by Kelly Kaur in conjunction with Wole Adedoyin, IHRAF African Secretariat Director, this captivating anthology delves into a tapestry of themes, including love, death, race, women’s rights, politics, and the profound beauty of existence, presenting the unique perspectives of 22 talented African writers and artists.

In "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent," readers will be taken on a literary journey like no other. The book encompasses an enchanting underwater world imagined by an eight-year-old alongside raw and poignant reflections on life across the African continent. These thought-provoking glimpses into the human experience paint a rich and diverse portrait of Africa's creative talent and its indomitable spirit.

As an integral part of IHRAF's "Hear the Voices" series, "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent" weaves together literary expressions and artwork to celebrate the resilience and strength of the African people. This anthology serves as a testament to the power of art and storytelling in fostering empathy, understanding, and advocacy for human rights.

The contributors featured in the book were carefully selected from the two editions of the IHRAF Interview Series, which showcased over 100 writers and artists curated by Wole Adedoyin in 2021 and 2022. Hailing from five African countries, namely Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Togo, Ghana, and Kenya, these artists and writers bring a rich diversity of perspectives to the table. The anthology includes a wide array of literary forms, such as poetry, short stories, and various forms of artwork.

Among the gifted artists and writers featured in the anthology are Omale Allen ABDUL-JABBAR (Nigeria), Stephanie Mwuese ABUGHDYER (Nigeria), Wole ADEDOYIN (Nigeria), AKANNI Kehinde James (Art) Nigeria, Ugochukwu ANADI (Nigeria), AWKU SundayVictor (Nigeria), Mbizo CHIRASHA (Zimbabwe), Abdoul Ganiou DERMANI (Art) (Togo), Shina FASANMI (Nigeria), IZUNNA Okafor (Nigeria), Frank KALIATI (Malawi), Dominic Oigo MAINA (Kenya), Chigozie Anuli MBADUGHA (Nigeria), Prayerlife NWOSU (Nigeria), Temidayo OLALEYE (Nigeria), Bernice Adebimpe OYELEKE (Nigeria), Mnguember Vicky SYLVESTER (Nigeria), Marcus Ovie UGBODUMA (Nigeria), Sumaila UMAISHA (Nigeria), Stanley UMEZULIKE (Nigeria), Rachel YRAM (Ghana), and Sakinat YUSUF (Nigeria).

IHRAF believes that "From Africa with Love: Voices of a Creative Continent" will serve as a powerful platform to amplify African voices and bring attention to the social, political, and cultural issues faced by the continent. By offering a diverse and compelling collection of narratives, the book seeks to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of Africa.

The book is now available for purchase through the IHRAF website and select online retailers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CCCPH1X9?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860. IHRAF encourages individuals, educators, human rights advocates, and art enthusiasts alike to support this remarkable project and embrace the vibrant and profound voices of the African creative community.

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) is a global platform that unites art and human rights advocacy. Through its diverse programming, IHRAF fosters dialogue, raises awareness, and encourages meaningful action on human rights issues worldwide. IHRAF believes in the power of art to inspire change and promote social justice.

Anthology on the Sudanese Civil War: IHRAF Extends Deadline to July 31st, Welcomes Submissions from Sudanese and Non-Nigerian Poets

 

ANTHOLOGY ON THE SUDANESE CIVIL WAR: IHRAF EXTENDS DEADLINE TO JULY 31ST, WELCOMES SUBMISSIONS FROM SUDANESE AND NON-NIGERIAN POETS

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) and its African Chapter are pleased to announce the extension of the submission deadline for the anthology "Thorns, Tears and Treachery: An Anthology of Short Stories/Poems on the Sudanese Civil War." The new deadline for submissions is July 31st, 2023. This extension is aimed at encouraging and capturing the diverse voices of writers residing in Sudan. IHRAF welcomes both Sudanese and non-Nigerian poets to contribute to this important literary endeavor.

The primary objective of this Pan-African project is to amplify the views and voices of Sudanese and African writers, both at home and abroad, on the ongoing civil war in Sudan. By harnessing the power of creative expression, IHRAF aims to shed light on the conflicts, struggles, and experiences of the Sudanese people. The selected works that meet our criteria of excellence will be published in the anthology, ensuring that these powerful narratives reach a wide audience.

Authors whose works are chosen for publication will receive a compensation of $50.00 each. It is important to note that submissions must be original and previously unpublished. We expect works of the highest language and literary quality, showcasing the depth and richness of Sudanese creative talent.

To submit your work, please send a maximum of three (3) poems or two (2) short stories as MS Word attachments formatted in Times New Roman font size 12 to submissionsentriesihraf@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can use the online submission form available at https://forms.gle/i4i9FGXusCvrsuaSA. Please do not submit screenshots or writings in jpg format. Include your brief bio-data and contact details, including your address, email, phone number/WhatsApp number, etc.

IHRAF and the authors of the selected works will hold the copyright to the published pieces. The anthology will be distributed in hard copies, featured on the IHRAF website, and made available on other notable online platforms. By participating in this anthology, writers will contribute to a powerful collective voice advocating for human rights and social justice.

We would like to emphasize that submissions received prior to the original deadline, which ended on June 30th, 2023, and have been acknowledged by IHRAF, will remain valid for consideration. However, this deadline extension specifically targets voices from Sudan due to the low percentage of submissions received from Sudanese writers.

The selected works that meet our criteria will be announced in September 2023, and authors whose works are chosen will be notified accordingly.

About IHRAF: The International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF) is dedicated to giving voice to the voiceless, protecting freedom of expression, and using creativity to bring attention to human rights and social justice causes worldwide. IHRAF's inclusive programs aim to unite artists, activists, politicians, government agencies, and social leaders in the pursuit of social justice and positive change.

For further information and inquiries, please contact: Wole: +234 807 267 3852, woleadedoyin@gmail.com Terseer: +234 807 722 3196, terseersam@gmail.com Website: www.ihraf.org

 

AZA Artists and Writers Movement Changes Name to Ulli Beier Society

 

AZA ARTISTS AND WRITERS MOVEMENT CHANGES NAME TO ULLI BEIER SOCIETY

 

The Aza Artists and Writers Movement, a renowned platform dedicated to promoting the works of artists and writers in our country, is proud to announce its new name: the Ulli Beier Society. The name change reflects the movement's commitment to honoring the legacy of Ulli Beier, a renowned art historian, curator, and promoter of African arts and literature.

Established in 2013 by the late Busari Olaniyi Agbolade (Painter), Adegboyega Tajudeen (Sculptor), and Wole Adedoyin (Writer), the Ulli Beier Society serves as a meeting point for both established and upcoming artists and writers. It provides a platform for them to showcase, read, mentor, enhance, hone, and publicize their works, fostering a vibrant and inclusive creative community.

The new name, Ulli Beier Society, pays homage to Ulli Beier, a highly influential figure in the promotion of African arts and culture. Beier's dedication to nurturing artistic talent and fostering cross-cultural dialogue resonates deeply with the mission of the society. The name change symbolizes the movement's renewed commitment to the ideals espoused by Beier throughout his career.

Over the years, the Ulli Beier Society has played a pivotal role in promoting the works of talented artists and writers. It has showcased the creative expressions of individuals such as Adegboyega Tajudeen, Busari Olaniyi Agbolade, Christopher Samuel, Mustapha Sherif Abiodun, Chibueze Avril Nathaniel, and many others. Through exhibitions, workshops, and other initiatives, the society has provided valuable opportunities for artistic growth and recognition.

One of the notable achievements of the Ulli Beier Society is the organization of five successful arts and writing workshops. These workshops have brought together artists and writers from various genres, facilitating the exchange of ideas, techniques, and inspiration. They have served as transformative experiences for participants, enabling them to further develop their craft and expand their creative horizons.

As the Ulli Beier Society, the movement looks forward to continuing its important work in the arts and literary community. The society remains committed to nurturing and empowering artists and writers, providing them with a platform to share their unique perspectives and contribute to the cultural landscape.

The Ulli Beier Society invites artists, writers, and enthusiasts to join its vibrant community, where creativity thrives and collaboration flourishes. By embracing the legacy of Ulli Beier, the society seeks to champion artistic excellence and celebrate the diversity of artistic expressions.