Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Has Advanced the Field of African American Studies

Gates will be available formedia interviews from 11 a.m. -- noon.

Internationally renowned Harvard University chair of Afro-American studies, Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr., whose new book "The Bondwoman's Narrative" has received national attention in The New York Times and USA Today, will be available for media interviews after a reception and book signing at Davenport University.

The exclusive Detroit appearance will take place on Jan.16, 2003 at Davenport University's Warren location from 9:30 a.m. -- 11 a.m. Due to limited seating, attendance is limited to Davenport staff, faculty, students and the media. Reservations are required. Dr. Gates will also speak at Davenport's Grand Rapids location later in the day.

Dr. Gates, a leading historian, educator and author in the fields of Black literature, history and culture, has advanced the field of African American studies through the recovery, authentication and publication of The Bondwoman's Narrative.

Written in the 1850s, scholars now believe the story to be the first novel ever written by a black woman and the only one by a formerly enslaved woman. The recently published 19th-century work tells the story of Hannah Crafts, an enslaved woman whose suffering prompted her to escape to the north and to freedom.

It's also thought to be the only such work to be uncovered in its original, unedited condition.

While remaining faithful to the standard elements of fugitive slave fiction, the work raises questions of influence and authorship. Scholars and students of African-American studies, women's studies and 19th-century history and literature will welcome the opportunity to study this first-hand account that is a moving portrait of the often savage, legal and social conditions of the American south before the civil war.

Dr. Gates called scholars to help solve mysteries including: Was Crafts a real person? Was the manuscript legitimate? Dr. Gates can describe how he determined the answers probably are affirmative. Warner Books collected the story and Dr. Gates' analyses in the book published in March.

"The Bondwoman's Narrative" will be used in several Davenport courses.

The event will be held at Davenport's Warren campus, located at 27500 Dequindre, South Building (just north of 11 Mile Road).

Davenport University serves nearly 15,000 students at 30 locations throughout Michigan and northern Indiana. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, Davenport offers master's, bachelor's and associate's degree programs in business, health care and technology.

Photographers: Lighting will be a combination of natural and interior fluorescent lights. TV cameras may be set up in back.