By Autumn P. Prather
The 17th Annual Literary Luncheon will take place on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at the Music City Center, Davidson Ballroom at 11 a.m. Co-chaired by The Honorable Karen Johnson and Dr. Candra Clariette, this year’s event is sure to make history! The theme, “Celebrating our Stories…Empowering our Future” is the backdrop for the annual fundraiser that supports the local chapter’s young girls’ organization known as Lighting the Path for Girls (Jewels).
The Nashville Chapter of Les Gemmes, Incorporated (French; means “the jewels” and pronounced “lay gem”) was chartered in March, 2004, under the umbrella of the national organization, which was established in Norfolk, Virginia in 1944.
The Nashville Chapter originated out of the desire to create a platform which would effect positive change, encourage high scholastic achievement, and foster a greater sense of unity among its members. There were 15 women who recognized Nashville’s growing population and had the fortitude to form a chapter, here in the Music City, bringing together like-minded women. The charter members are Joyce C. Ball, JD; Margaret McClain, Lula Brooks, Gloria McKissack, Dr. Leslie Drummond, Mary Carver Patrick, Dr. Evelyn Pitts Fancher, Rosetta Miller-Perry, Ann Haynes, Virginia Potts, Edwina Hefner, Dr. Valenia Price, Debbie Hirsch, Hortense Price Jones and Joy Sims, J.D. Currently, the membership is more than 50 women; who champion the chapter’s mission which, as a nonprofit entity, is to be a charitable, educational, civic, and cultural organization committed to promoting positive influences, justice, and social change within local communities. “I was so pleased to partner with Dr. Evelyn Fancher and get the ball rolling for the Nashville Chapter of Les Gemmes. I felt Nashville needed an organization that was culturally based and focused on literary arts. I am thrilled to see how the seed we planted grow so beautiful with our Jewels.,” said founding member Edwina Hefner. According to charter member Dr. Evelyn Fancher, “The Literary Luncheon has not only been a cultural event and encouraged reading; but has become a social event that brings friends together for a worthy cause as well.” The Nashville Chapter’s commitment to mentoring the Jewels by exposing them to a variety of cultural and educational workshops that teach real life skills is what makes this organization shine.
Moreover, the Literary Luncheon gathers some of the best and brightest authors from throughout the nation. You can be a part of this history-making event by being a vendor. If you have books, arts and craft items, or other specialty products, please contact Rene’ Whittaker and inquire about being a vendor. You may email her at mrenew45@gmail.com or call her at 615-838-6164.
For information about sponsorship or tickets information please visit the website, LesGemmesNashville.org or Eventbrite.com.
