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Author Talk: Deesha Dyer's Undiplomatic

The MLK Library is excited to host an enlightening Author Talk with Deesha Dyer on her new book, Undiplomatic in partnership with the Washington Association of Black Journalists.

Deesha Dyer, a former White House social secretary for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery in her book. She recounts how, as a hip-hop journalist and community leader, she overcame imposter syndrome to land one of the most exclusive positions in the White House.

The event will feature a discussion on the book, followed by a Q&A session. You can learn more about the book below and register to let us know you're coming. First fifty attendees will received a complimentary copy of Undiplomatic, courtesy of the DC Public Library Foundation

For reasonable accommodations, please contact the Center for Accessibility at 202-727-2142 or DCPLaccess@dc.gov. For ASL or tactile interpretation, please allow at least seven (7) days notice.

Without credentials, connections or a college degree, a hip-hop journalist and community leader conquered her imposter syndrome while landing one of the most exclusive, sought-after and fun positions in the White House. Deesha reflects on how imposter syndrome threatened her self-esteem, proven aptitude and survival until she realized that it was neither her fault nor her responsibility. In Undiplomatic, she invites you on a journey of self-discovery where she overcame doubt, unearthed true love for herself and learned that your unique worth is not something to be earned, but something inherently deserved.

About the Conversation Partner

Marissa Mitchell is a three-time Emmy award-winning journalist and the main anchor at FOX 5 DC. She has nearly 17 years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital media, covering major events across the country and interviewing numerous newsmakers. Marissa has received several community awards for her commitment to philanthropy and community service, and is a member of the Washington Association of Black Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists and the Rho Mu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in Washington D.C. She also sits on the Board of Governors of the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. In her free time, Marissa frequently speaks to youth, women, and nonprofit organizations to inform, entertain, and inspire.

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About The DC Public Library Foundation

For over 100 years, DCPL has played a major role in serving all District residents – from the most affluent to those struggling to survive.  The Library is proud to be a recognized force in the community for engaging the mind, expanding opportunities and elevating the quality of life.

The Foundation has raised substantial funds to support such programs as the library’s Summer Reading program; citywide initiatives to support early literacy, such as “Sing, Talk and Read,” which helps young parents learn the importance of using books to interact with their babies; computer training classes, especially for job seekers; and programs serving the Spanish-speaking population and those in need of special services such as the deaf or visually impaired. Additionally, the Foundation increases collections to help the library provide the best and newest books and other materials and increases library patrons’ access to emerging technologies.

About the Washington Association of Black Journalists

Founded in 1975, the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) is an organization for Black journalists, journalism professors, public relations professionals, and student journalists in the Washington, D.C., metro area.

WABJ provides members with ongoing professional education opportunities and advocates for greater diversification of the profession.

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