Well, hello there!
My name is Rashid Darden. You might know me from this video from Channel 4:
If this is your first time visiting my page, or your first time in a while, welcome! This site has had several incarnations over the years. It is primarily an introduction to my life as a novelist. I love writing. Although I was a creative person at a young age, it was the encouragement of the late, great poet Elaine Magarrell through the Scholars in the Schools program in DC, that really made me believe I could be a writer as a profession. Through guest presenters like her, teachers like Sarah Clark, and a loving, supportive mother, I knew that I had within me all that I needed to change this world.
I am unapologetically black, unapologetically gay, and active in my community through several organizations.
I am quite particular about how I wish to be contacted. If you’re a reader or a fan of my commentary, please reach out through your favorite social media outlets, which are listed on my contact page. That page also lists how to book me for a speaking engagement.
If you have my email address, that’s a poor way to reach me. If you have my number, that’s a poor way to reach me. Social media is truly the best way.
If you have a very strong opinion about something I’ve written, something I’ve said, the way I shake my head when speaking, or the way I don’t pick out my afro, please leave those comments on social media or post them on your own pages. I can assure you that your private contact won’t change me unless it comes accompanied by a life-altering cashier’s check.
At the end of the day, we all out here just trying to make it. I appreciate your support and I welcome you read my past blog entries and to even purchase some of my books. And if you do, please leave a review!