The Friends of the Brentwood Public Library, Inc. celebrated the 2026 James Weldon Johnson Young Writers Festival, a four-day literary and arts experience that empowered students in grades 3–12 through creative expression, cultural education and leadership development.
Held June 10–13 at Jacksonville’s Main Library, the festival concluded with the Young Authors Showcase, Awards and Scholarship Production where students presented original works inspired by the theme, “Our Voices Matter: What Peace Looks Like to Me.” Awards were presented in poetry, monologue and creative art illustration across elementary, middle and senior divisions. The creative students performed original poetry, monologues, spoken word presentations, choral selections and artistic interpretations reflecting their visions of peace, justice, unity and hope.
A highlight of the event was an engaging workshop led by Honorary Chairperson Dr. Johnetta Cole who encouraged students to explore storytelling, creativity, and self-expression through writing. She defined an author as “someone brave enough to place their thoughts, dreams, pain, joy, and imagination onto paper so others can feel, learn, heal, and grow.”
Dr. Cole answered questions on why she became an author and encouraged students to recognize the value of their own stories, reminding them that their neighborhoods, family histories, struggles, and dreams all carry meaning and importance that deserve to be told.
“I learned that writing gave me a voice even when the world was not listening,” said Cole.
The workshop underscored the idea that every student has a story worth sharing—and that writing can be a tool for confidence, healing, and personal growth.
Participants who were not selected for awards or scholarships each received $25. Participants also had an opportunity to win an Apple iPad and earbuds.
The festival honored the legacy of Jacksonville native James Weldon Johnson, an author, educator, diplomat, civil rights leader and co-creator of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Through writing workshops, spoken word, poetry, art illustration, dance, music and historical exploration, students learned how their voices can inspire positive change in their communities.
“This festival is about more than writing,” said Sharon Coon, founder and artistic director of the James Weldon Johnson Young Writers Festival.
“It is about helping young people find their voice, develop confidence, embrace their creativity and understand that their stories matter. We are investing in future authors, leaders, artists, educators and changemakers.”
The festival concluded with a special screening of excerpts from “Echoes of Freedom: 125 Years of Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists’ 2025 award-winning feature on the history and legacy of the Black National Anthem.
The festival was presented by the Friends of the Brentwood Public Library in partnership with other organizations and a host of volunteers.