The Panther

Issue date: 11/9/05 Section: Campus

From the heart: Nicolle Pierce speaks to students at

The Urban Readers Association and the Eta Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. hosted an informational forum and book signing entitled "Why Black People Don't Read" on Tuesday, Nov. 8 in the New Science building.

Nicolle Pierce, author of The Sacred Sermon was invited to speak to students about the stigma of "why black people don't read." Pierce, a native of Dallas and alumna of Tuskegee University, displayed her impressive wit and caring personality as she spoke to students about how to get their works published.

She informed students on her journey to become a self published author as opposed to an author who publishes work through a publishing company.

Pierce shared with students her daily life as an artist, her hustle to get the word out about her book, her determination to finish something she truly believes in. "The Sacred Sermon is my little baby," she said. She encouraged students to believe in their works, just as she did.

"You should have the tenacity to believe in your production," Pierce said. When she spoke about the topic of "why black people don't read," she said she was "torn by the topic."

To know that the cycle of not reading is going on in the black community made her "heart hurt," she said. Jamie Jackson, a sophomore communication major, said "I think it was very informative, inspiring, intellectual and encouraging to see a beautiful black woman putting into action what she wanted to do."

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