The Debate: Baldwin and Buckley 1965

About James Baldwin

James Baldwin (1924-1987) was a renowned American writer, poet, and civil rights activist. Born in Harlem, New York, Baldwin’s life was marked by a deep commitment to social justice and a passion for storytelling. Through his powerful and poignant writings, he gave voice to the experiences of African Americans, exploring themes of racism, identity, and the human condition. His notable works include ‘Giovanni’s Room’, ‘Another Country’, and ‘The Fire Next Time’, which have become classics of American literature. As a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Baldwin used his platform to advocate for equality and challenge systemic racism, inspiring generations of writers, artists, and activists. His legacy continues to resonate today, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and collective action in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

About William Buckley

William F. Buckley Jr. was a prominent American conservative intellectual, author, and commentator Born into a wealthy family, Buckley was educated at Yale University, where he developed his conservative views and began to establish himself as a leading voice in the movement [citation:6]. In 1955, he founded National Review, a conservative publication that became a platform for his ideas and a hub for conservative thought.

The Debate

One of the most notable events in Buckley’s career was his debate with James Baldwin, a renowned African American writer and activist, at Cambridge University in 1965. The debate, which took place on February 18, 1965, centred on the motion “The American Dream is at the expense of the American Negro.” Baldwin argued that the American Dream was indeed at the expense of African Americans, while Buckley countered that the American Dream was available to all, regardless of race.

The debate was a significant moment in American history, as it highlighted the deep-seated racial tensions and inequalities that existed in the United States at the time.

About this event

We are connecting this historical event with Black History, all year round, and in particular linking with the US celebration of Black History, which takes place in February. This debate took place in the UK at Cambridge University and therefore is part of British History. Baldwin was here meeting with activists, writers (Bertrand Russell) while promoting his books also. He was invited to the debate with fellow American intellectual William Buckley. This was at the height of the Civil Rights movement, and notorioulsy took place 3 days before Baldwin learnt of the tragic assassination of Malcolm X, forcing Baldwin to make an early departure from the UK.

We will watch the debate and have a discussion about the issues it raises, to see what lessons have been learnt about race relations both in the UK and US.

The Facilitator

Dr Michelle Asantewa is an award-winning author, independent educator, cultural consultant and publisher. Her publications include the young adult novel, Elijah, The Awakening and Other Poems, Guyanese Komfa: The Ritual Art of Trance and Something Buried in the Yard, published by Way Wive Wordz Publishing, which she co-founded in 2014. She is the editor of the anthology In Search of Mami Wata, which centres on African and Caribbean water spirits. Mama Lou Tales, a biography of her mother Lucille Davis received a prize for the Guyana Literary Prize in 2022. Dr Asantewa is the co-organiser of the Annual Osun River Ritual at Morden Hall Park. She is co-course leader of the Amazing James Baldwin, African Women Resistance Leaders, Toni Morrison: Her life Her Work and Andrea Levy short courses, as well as numerous writing workshops. Her first collection of short stories, Rupunnuni Affair and the Mami Wata, Children’s Activity Book were published in 2024.

Where:

IN PERSON at Wimbledon Reference Library, 35 Wimbledon Hill Rd, London SW19 7NB

The event is FREE to attend but please register as numbers are limited.