Performer Harry Belafonte will speak in Evansville as part of the Celebration of Diversity Distinguished Lecture Series. Belafonte, who is a social activist and humanitarian in addition to a musician and actor, will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 18 at The Centre.

The event is free and open to the public. No tickets are required.

Belafonte is known for introducing calypso to mainstream music. He was the composer of songs such as “Banana Boat Song (Day O)” and “Jump the Line.” He also earned a Tony Award for his Broadway debut in “John Murray Anderson’s Almanac.”

Belafonte has worked with world leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., President John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela. He also helped organize the 1985 “We Are the World” project to aid people affected by war, drought, and famine in Africa.

The Celebration of Diversity Distinguished Lecture Series is a collaborative effort between the city and area businesses and educational partners, including the University of Southern Indiana, committed to the support of diversity in the Evansville area.

Since its inception in 2007, the Celebration of Diversity Distinguished Lecture Series has brought Evansville an exceptional group of lecturers, all speaking to the series’ mission to raise awareness, foster understanding, and enhance diversity through open community dialogue.

Former speakers have included Colin Powell, Magic Johnson, Tony Dungy, Marlee Matlin, and Queen Latifah.

For more information, visit celebratingdiversity.org.