Getting Familiar with/An approach to Afro-Centred Literature
The Local Challenge
African and Afro-descendant literature and its authors remain largely invisible within a racist cultural and knowledge system. Literature and creative expression offer powerful tools to build anti-racist awareness, yet racism continues to threaten democracy, spread stereotypes, and normalize hate. In Spain, hate crimes and harassment against Black communities are increasing, while their historical legacies remain overlooked. Currently, no public or private initiatives highlight Afro literature from the perspective of Black voices. This project fills that gap by centering Black authors and narratives, while promoting inclusion, equality, active citizenship, and community well-being.
The Initiative
The Plantain Library, created by Espacio Afro in Madrid, is led by the Black and Afro-descendant community. It promotes knowledge and exchange through books and activities from an Afro-centered perspective, highlighting Afro-descendant authors to challenge racism and empower communities. As Spain lacks a specialized library in this field, the initiative improves access to postcolonial and anti-racist literature through both physical and digital spaces. Key activities include building a digital catalogue, expanding the collection, collaborating with libraries, hosting book clubs, and engaging authors. The library also supports projects like Madrid Negro, serving as a hub for memory and empowerment.
What’s Next?
The Plantain Library, currently with 80 members, will expand its reach through an online catalogue, reading groups, author presentations, and dynamic community activities, aiming to directly impact 2,500 people. This influence will be amplified by Espacio Afro’s communication channels, including 26,000 Instagram followers and a newsletter reaching 1,000 subscribers. The library will provide the Black and Afro-descendant community with specialized bibliographies and resources by diaspora authors, strengthening identity and historical memory. At the same time, it will promote anti-racist literacy for wider society, fostering empathy, dialogue, and equality within a safe, inclusive space dedicated to representation and empowerment.
Contact theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu if you have any questions or want to be connected with the team behind the project.
