This is a celebration of life for the one and only, Steve Cannon; poet, novelist and playwright, professor, epic mentor, provocateur extraordinaire, founder of A Gathering of the Tribes, and dearly beloved friend whose magnanimity was unparalleled.

Among the speakers/performers: Evelyn Cannon, Bobby Cannon, Tracy K. Smith, Quincy Troupe, Paul Beatty, Victor Hernandez Cruz, Gaia Schilke, Ammiel Alcalay. Edwin Torres will conduct the Poets Choir which includes Patricia Spears Jones, Todd Colby and Emily XYZ. Films by No Land and Tracie Williams, Steve’s play “Chump Change” directed by Melanie Goodreaux, with music by Janice Lowe. Music by Matt Shipp, Daniel Carter, Rebirth Brass Band and others. The entire audience and all performers and musicians will participate in the Grand Finale, after which, at 7pm we parade into the Parish Hall for dinner New Orleans style — red beans and rice, collards, jambalaya, and gumbo, drinks, chocolate cake. And an Open Mic! With Kathy Arnoldi leading off.