TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Marr’s Field Journal, The University of Alabama undergraduate literary journal, will host its first multicultural reading “More Than Shakespeare: A Reading Celebrating Diversity Within Literature,” on Wednesday, Oct. 15, from 7-9 p.m. at the Ferguson Center Anderson Room.

The event is co-sponsored by Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority Inc.

Students and faculty will have an opportunity to read the works of their favorite writers who exemplify the belief that great literature is derived from a multitude of places, voices and perceptions. Individuals can also share their own work. The evening will include a brief video documentary and a presentation highlighting lesser-known writers from around the world.

“There is a subconscious trend among many students. When asked to name great writers, most state the obvious: Shakespeare, Hemingway, Faulkner,” said Bonita Weaver, editor of Marr’s Field Journal, which is in its 14th year of publication. “This reading is to help students realize the diversity within literature as it is reflected by who creates the words. The reading will highlight and celebrate the contributions made by women, Hispanic/Latin, Asian and African authors, as well as those writers who dare to defy mainstream convention and, by doing so, are largely ignored.”

Marr’s Field Journal was created in 1989 as a forum for undergraduate students to publish their poetry, prose, art and photography. The journal accepts submissions from students and is published once every semester. Marr’s Field Journal won a 2002 Gold Medal at the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Publication Competition, heralding the journal as one of the best collegiate literary publications in the nation.

All interested students and faculty are encouraged to attend. The event is free to the public. For additional information, contact the Marr’s Field Journal office, 205/348-7264. The Kappa Associate chapter of Delta Xi Phi was founded in May by seven women of diverse races and backgrounds. DXP is UA's first national multicultural sorority. The group’s pillars are the empowerment of women in higher education, increasing multicultural awareness, community service, sisterhood and friendship.