After working with authors for several years, Yvette Hayward noticed that there was a conspicuous absence as it related African American authors. They had been historically and habitually un- or under-recognized when it came to their literary accomplishments. Books penned by African- Americans as well as African American readership were and are an ever-growing segment in the marketplace, having mushroomed into a multi-dimensional, commercially viable segment where readers spend over $375 million on books by black and non-black writers.

In light of these facts, Yvette decided to take action. And, in 2004, The African American Literary Awards Show was conceived and produced. It was the first awards show of its kind, filling a large vacuum in the literary community. 17 years after its debut, the AALAS is still the first and only of its caliber, that recognizes African American authors.