Seventy years ago, in September 1956, around 50 Black writers and artists from across Africa and the African diaspora gathered at the Sorbonne in Paris. This meeting, known as the First Congress of African Writers and Artists, was a pivotal moment in the global Black intellectual movement. Participants aimed to reclaim and celebrate African culture, which had long been misrepresented or marginalized in Western narratives. They discussed themes such as identity, colonialism, and the future of African nations. This historical event is now being revisited through an exhibition and conference taking place this Friday at the Sorbonne, marking the 70th anniversary of the original gathering. The exhibition is being curated by Florence Alexis, one of two organizers, who has a personal connection to the 1956 congress. Her father, Jacques Stephen Alexis, was a Haitian writer and intellectual who attended the event. As a descendant of one of the participants, Florence brings both a personal and academic perspective to the project. The exhibition seeks to explore the legacy of the 1956 congress and its relevance today. It raises important questions about whether the struggles and aspirations declared at that time have been achieved or if new challenges remain. Florence Alexis emphasizes the importance of understanding the 1956 congress as more than a historical footnote. She explains that the event was a turning point for Black intellectual life, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among writers and artists across the African continent and the diaspora. The congress encouraged the creation of new cultural and literary forms that reflected African experiences and perspectives. Today, the exhibition aims to highlight how these ideas have influenced modern movements for racial justice, cultural pride, and political empowerment. The Sorbonne event will feature a mix of historical artifacts, writings, and multimedia displays, alongside discussions and lectures by scholars and artists. It is intended to be both an educational and reflective experience, encouraging visitors to consider the ongoing relevance of the 1956 congress. As the world continues to grapple with issues of identity, representation, and power, the legacy of that gathering remains a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of cultural and intellectual solidarity.