Calvin C. Hernton
Biography of Calvin C. Hernton
Calvin Coolidge Hernton was a significant figure in the Black Arts Movement, a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the 1960s and early 1970s. This movement advocated for the creation of Black art that was politically engaged and reflective of the Black experience. Born on April 28, 1932, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and passing away on September 30, 2001, in Oberlin, Ohio, Hernton made lasting contributions to literature and social criticism.
Hernton was known for his work as a poet, novelist, and social critic, exploring themes of race, sexuality, and the African American experience. His literary works were characterized by their bold and unflinching examination of societal issues. Among his poetry collections are Medicine Man (1976) and The Coming of Chronos to the House of Nightsong (1991), both noted for their powerful imagery and engagement with themes of identity, oppression, and liberation. Additionally, his groundbreaking non-fiction book, Sex and Racism in America (1965), delved into the intersections of race and sexuality in American society, influencing both literary and academic circles with its candid discussion of taboo subjects.
Hernton played a pivotal role in the Black Arts Movement, advocating for the creation of a distinct cultural and artistic identity for African Americans. This movement emphasized Black pride, autonomy, and the need for art to address political and social issues. Hernton collaborated with other prominent BAM figures, including Amiri Baraka (LeRoi Jones), Gwendolyn Brooks, and Sonia Sanchez, helping to shape the direction and ethos of the movement.
In addition to his literary contributions, Hernton had a significant academic career. He held various academic positions, including a long tenure at Oberlin College in Ohio, where he was instrumental in developing African American Studies programs and mentoring young Black writers and scholars.
Hernton’s work and activism played a crucial role in challenging racial stereotypes and advocating for civil rights through the arts. His contributions helped pave the way for subsequent generations of Black writers and artists. Calvin Coolidge Hernton’s legacy continues to resonate in contemporary discussions of race, identity, and social justice, marking him as a prominent and influential figure in the history of American literature and the Black Arts Movement.
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