Elizabeth Keckly
Elizabeth Keckly was born in February 1818 in Dinwiddie County Courthouse, VA. She was born a slave to slave parents. She was brought into this world in God-like thought but fettered in action. Like many before her, she was forced into servitude. But she never surrendered her mind or her desire to be free! Although […]
Making up History – What are your thoughts?
There is a growing trend regarding this country’s history. It is becoming the norm to tell history the way it did NOT happen! It is also becoming the norm to take accurate literature and change/replace offensive words. Thereby changing history. As an African American Woman who was born and reared in Mississippi, you know where […]
Challenger Explosion – Where were you when it happened?
It was the last year of high school. It was a brisk cool day. My usual routine was go to class. After class take the city bus to downtown Hartford, get off in front of Friendly’s Restaurant. There I ordered my usual– a chicken sandwich with extra mayo and a strawberry fribble. Then I would […]
Bessie Coleman – The World’s First Internationally Licensed Pilot
On this date in 1892, The woman who dared to dream was born. Ms. Bessie Coleman was one of 13 children born in Atlanta, TX. She grew up during the Jim Crow era. This was a time when being Black could cost you your life. This was a time when Black folk were to do […]
This one is for the Unsung in my life
There are people in our lives that want only the best for you. They will do whatever they can, whenever they can even when it is obvious that the only benefit for themselves is that they are helping some one they love and respect. They never ask for anything in return except you do the […]
Looking for a powerful 20th century heroine to bring to life
I have several women that I portray that cover 18th, 19th and early 20th century. I am now looking to portray a powerful, influential African-American woman of the late 20th century. Some one who has made an impact on our community far and wide but little is known of her. Any suggestions?
Oral Traditions: Life Lessons
Oral tradition is the way a native people continue to keep their heritage alive. Whether these stories are told through the eyes of animals or through first person narrative, oral tradition can and will teach us life lessons. While growing up in Mississippi, I was surrounded by this tradition. I would hear the stories of […]
The First Black Woman to practice law in Mississippi
Marian Wright attended racially segregated public schools, but excelled academically despite the inadequate opportunities offered to her in those institutions. After graduation Wright attended Spelman College, a prominent institution for black women in Atlanta, Georgia. While at Spelman Wright received scholarships to study abroad that took her to Paris, Switzerland, and the Soviet Union. With […]
Above and beyond the call of duty! – Dorie Miller
On this day in 1941, a cook by the name of Doris “Dorie” Miller, became a hero. Dorie as he was affectionately known would put thoughts of his own safety away and man a military weapon he had no knowledge of. Due to his bravery he was awarded the Navy Cross (The third highest honor […]