Haley Heritage Square

Adjacent to Knoxville’s Morningside Park, Haley Heritage Square pays homage to Alex Haley, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Roots and The Autobiography of Malcolm X, who made East Tennessee his home prior to his death in 1992. A 13-foot bronze statue of the author is the centerpiece of the Square, and Takia Ajanaku of African American Appalachian Arts, Inc., says it’s a gathering spot for local families and tourists alike.

“We think it’s important for East Tennessee, East Knoxville and the city in general because it’s a great vacation site — people take pictures by the statue and of children sitting in his lap, they’re all across the Internet,” Ajanaku says. “People create family reunions around it and it’s a family-oriented place.”

Roots is the story of Haley’s family, their journey from Africa into slavery in the United States and their history after emancipation. Ajanaku says Haley’s literary contributions will be celebrated at a May 18 event to recognize the 10-year anniversary of the statue that was created by world-renowned sculptor Tina Allen.

Storytellers, spoken-word performers and poets will join actor Louis Gossett Jr. at the site from 3 to 6 p.m. for the free celebration that will also feature live entertainment, African dances and a free fish fry.

Haley’s motto was “find the good and praise it,” and that’s what this event is all about.