I have always felt James Baldwin and I are kindred spirits. He was unapologetic about being black and gay. He was a civil rights activist who was vocal about what he believe. He was a writer and penned some of the greatest narratives about the black experience in a racially divided America. His birthday is August 2 and husband's birthday is August 2. When asked who would I consider my role models, the big three are James Baldwin, Langston Hughes and Bayard Rustin.
So imagine how excited I was/ am to learn that his New York home has been added to the list of historic landmarks by the National Register of Historic Places. Amanda Davis, project manager fore the NYC LGBT Historic Sites Project championed this cause. Let's applaud her efforts. Earlier this year the governor of New York recognized Baldwin's home as both a state and city landmark.
Baldwin's contributions to American history and African-American history can not be forgotten thanks to the countless books bearing his name like Notes of a Native Son, If Beale Street Could Talk, Giovanni's Room and The Fire Next Time. And though that's the case, it is still exciting to see this recognition taking place. It is truly well deserved.
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