Born in 1922, Mildred Pitts Walter overcame poverty and racism to become a civil rights activist and an award-winning and highly published pioneering author of African American children’s literature. In Something Inside So Strong: Life in Pursuit of Choice, Courage, and Change, Walter recollects major touchstones in her life, including her childhood in segregated Louisiana, her teaching career in Los Angeles and her extensive work with her husband for the Los Angeles chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality.

Celebrated writers, Taalam Acey and Jessica Gallion will read excerpts from the book, followed by a Q & A with Mrs. Walter. S. Pearl Sharp co-hosts this event.