Cover image: Graphic for James Baldwin Paris plaque campaign
Image courtesy of Musée Josephine Baker et les Afro-Déscendants

Those of you who have experienced one or more Entrée to Black Paris walks know that our tour routes frequently include places that honor African Americans with plaques and/or street signs.

Richard Wright plaque
© Entrée to Black Paris

Place Josephine Baker street sign
© Entrée to Black Paris

Beauford Delaney plaque
© Entrée to Black Paris

With the James Baldwin Centennial having occurred last Friday (August 2), the recent opening of the Médiathèque James Baldwin in the 19th arrondissement (July 19), and La Maison Baldwin's upcoming Centennial Celebration in Paris (September 9-13), it is only fitting that we share information about a new initiative to honor Baldwin with a plaque in the City of Light.

Brian Scott Bagley of Musée Josephine Baker et les Afro-Descendants launched The Black Plaques Project on the Baldwin Centennial, with the intent to "celebrate and preserve the history of the Afro-diaspora in Paris."

He writes:

"Despite his profound impact, Paris lacks a single plaque honoring this great writer who called this city home ...

"It is our goal, with your support, to commemorate James Baldwin during his centennial year with a dedicated plaque in Paris."

Bagley was the driver behind the installation of the Josephine Baker plaque at Le Caroussel bar in the 9th arrondissement in June 2019.

Unveiling of the Josephine Baker plaque
© Entrée to Black Paris

Brian Scott Bagley and friend
admire the Josephine Baker plaque

Josephine Baker plaque
© Entrée to Black Paris

Entrée to Black Paris has no doubt that he will succeed at this endeavor as well.

To sign the petition in support of the James Baldwin plaque, click HERE.