LITERANISTA Dialogue on Multicultural Books, Tech & Life

Chrysler Group Hosts Legendary Poet Nikki Giovanni at National
Association of Black Journalists’ 31st Annual Convention

* Chrysler Group celebrates its 12th anniversary of “Spirit in the
Word” poetry program
* More than 500 African-American journalists from across the country
attend
* Giovanni signs more than 300 books following the event

INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The 31st Annual National
Association of Black Journalists’ (NABJ) Convention kicked off on Wednesday,
August 16 in Indianapolis with Chrysler Group hosting its “Spirit in the Word”
poetry program featuring world-renowned writer and poet, Nikki Giovanni. In its
12th year, Chrysler Group’s “Spirit in the Word” program attracted over 500 NABJ
journalists from across the nation.

The evening included Giovanni speaking about issues important to the
black community and reciting one of her most famous works, “Ego Tripping.” She
also shared the history behind her latest children’s book “Rosa,” which has won
honors as a special tribute to the late civil rights leader Rosa Parks. Giovanni
ended the evening by personalizing and signing more than 300 of her books for a
group of inspired journalists.The “Spirit in the Word” event has been a poetry
contest at minority journalism conferences throughout the U.S. (Native American,
Hispanic, Asian and African-American) by the Chrysler Group.

The program previously invited participants to read and perform their
works, in an effort to further the art of poetry. The poetry program began in
Detroit in 1994. At that time, 47 journalists and poets attended the event. This
year, Chrysler Group decided to share a poetry legend with the NABJ members in
lieu of hosting a contest.”Since its inception in 1994, Chrysler Group’s ‘Spirit
in the Word’ poetry program has provided opportunities for aspiring poets to
tell their story, share their passions and celebrate their culture,” said Frank
Fountain, DaimlerChrysler Senior Vice President of External Affairs and Public
Policy (Auburn Hills).

“This year, Chrysler Group and NABJ members had the chance to enjoy
and celebrate Nikki Giovanni, a spoken-word legend who has inspired generations
of people and cultures through her written work.”Giovanni’s honors include the
NAACP Image Award for literature in 1998 and the Langston Hughes Award for
Distinguished Contributions to Arts and letters in 1996. Several magazines have
named Giovanni Woman of the Year, including Essence, Mademoiselle, and Ladies
Home Journal.