A project providing community members an opportunity to own and connect around literacy and culture in an authentic and non-traditional way!
Leader
Dawn Arrington
Location
2970 E 116th St Cleveland, OH 44104
Comics at the Corner is an idea for increasing literacy rates in the Buckeye area and surrounding neighborhoods where literacy rates are extremely low. In some parts of the community the illiteracy rates has reached rates as high as 85%. There are opportunities and programs available in the community and Comics at the Corner does not seek to replace those efforts. I am simply trying to put as many comics in the hands of as many neighbors as I possibly can. I am seeking money to buy comic books/graphic novels written by and for people of color, such as Black Panther written by Ta Nehisi Coates. The goal is to give the books away at local well-traveled spots like corner stores, barbershops and at retail spaces where people congregate or have to wait for service (i.e. auto body shops).
Step 1: Purchase comics via local comic book store(s) and online retailers
Step 1.5: Purchase support materials (Gift bags, candy, labels)
Step 2: Secure locations for distribution (ideally this will be multiple locations)
Step 3: DISTRIBUTE!
It's as simple as that! The more books purchased the more can get into the hands of potential readers.
I believe comic books can attract reluctant readers and those who may have reading challenges. All people of all reading levels are drawn to the stories. The visual cues make the messages more accessible, comprehendible and relatable. Comics are conversation starters and connections can be ignited between people who read them, and on-going relationships can be fostered as the various copies are shared amongst people.
Ultimately, I want to encourage others to enjoy characters and connect with each other over literature. I witnessed the effects of pride and excitement when the Black Panther character came to life on the silver screen in February 2018. I was personally excited as I have been a fan of the character for years via reading the comics. As an avid reader I want to encourage reading amongst people of all ages. It is my hope that something is ignited by this project.