Author Monique Y. Wells Presents "Black Paris: Exploring the Myth of a
Color-Blind France", Oct. 22

New York, N.Y., October 21, 2002—Author and transplanted Texan Monique Y. Wells presents "Black Paris: Exploring the Myth of a Color-Blind France" October 22 in Sulzberger Tower. The event, sponsored by the Pan-African Studies Program, begins at noon.

A native of Houston and graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Wells is the author of Food for the Soul: A Texas Expatriate Nurtures Her Culinary Roots in Paris and co-author of Paris Reflections: Walks through African-American Paris. Food for the Soul is a tribute to African- American history, culture, and cuisine. Inspired to write a book for African Americans in Paris who wanted a taste of home while living abroad, Wells’ book evolved into a volume of more than 80 dishes.

Paris Reflections is a completely different endeavor, a book which takes the reader on six walking tours through historic districts of Paris where African-Americans lived prominently. The authors have assembled information about the lives and works of many of Paris' most prominent African Americans, including Langston Hughes and Josephine Baker.

Wells is currently the co-owner of Discover Paris!, a travel-planning service that has recently collaborated with major American universities to organize activities for a course on African-American literature, culture, and contemporary life.

Contact: Petra Tuomi, Office of Public Affairs, 212-854-7907