FLINT, Mich. — The Gloria Coles Flint Public Library will host an author visit as part of its Black History Month programming, highlighting the story of the Harlem Hellfighters, an all-Black military regiment that served in World War I.
Author Heather Buchanan will read from and discuss her novel “Victors: A Novel of Love, War and Jazz” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the library, located at 1026 E. Kearsley St. The event is free and open to the public.
“Victors” is based on the true story of the Harlem Hellfighters, a Black regiment that fought in France during World War I. The unit is widely recognized for its service and bravery at a time when the U.S. military was segregated.
“This special unit arguably won the war for the Allies,” Buchanan said in a statement. “They were the first to break all the way through into Germany. They never lost a man to capture. One hundred years later, their story remains untold.”
Buchanan spent more than a decade researching the novel. The book has been recognized by the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, and she speaks nationally about the Harlem Hellfighters and their historical significance.
Following the reading and discussion, Buchanan will sign copies of “Victors.”
The event is part of the library’s efforts to highlight Black history and amplify lesser-known stories during February.