How do you share a history that has been hidden in the past? As we talk to African American families across the country this is a topic that often arises. In families like mine generations that preceded us were taught never to talk about some of the things that were heard or seen. Those messages were carried into the later years of their lives and sometimes to their graves. And the impact has been a generation of children who find it hard to shape their future because they are unsure of the past from which they have risen.
Recently, Ronnie and I were excited to have an opportunity to tell Untold Stories from our families history for the Wells Fargo Kinsey Collection Untold Stories: Our Inspired Stories campaign. The need for families like ours to get these stories out into the open is critical. These stories are part of the fabric of our country, but most likely will never be told through history books… so it’s paramount that we tell the stories ourselves. From generation to generation, these words must live. We have to share these untold stories like griots from our native land so they will never be lost.
In the video above, Ronnie shares fond memories of growing up in Smithfield, Virginia insulated by family. She expresses how she longs for our children to have that same feeling that she has carried into adulthood and the impact that those experiences had on her even to this day.
In the video, from the steps of the Morgan County African American Museum, I share the story of my great, great, great grandfather Moses Bass who was the first freedman to buy land in Morgan County, Georgia despite the fact that he was unable to read or write. I also share the untold story about my grandfather that shocked my family (even his wife) that I discovered years after his death.
After viewing the video, we encourage you to share your own untold stories in the comment section below and through your social media platforms using the hashtag #KinseyUntold. These stories must be told!
The Kinsey Collection:
Presented by Wells Fargo, an exhibition of the renowned Kinsey Collection is currently on tour in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. The tour officially launched during Black History Month in San Francisco, CA. On June 29, the tour kicked off its second stop at the Harvey B. Gantt Center in Charlotte, NC. And beginning this weekend on November 2nd it will move to Baltimore’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum through March 2, 2014.
Earlier this year Ronnie and I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, the couple behind the collection. During our short time with the Kinseys we were totally blown away by their love for this country, love of African American culture and the love they show each other. They’ve set a precedent for what it means to leave a legacy because a true legacy is not just left for your family but for your community as well.
We strongly encourage you to take the time to visit the Kinsey Collection with your family. The impact is immeasurable.
Click here to view more Untold Stories from the Campaign.
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Wells Fargo but all thoughts and reflections are totally our own.