The Grasonville Community Center recently hosted a special event celebrating black excellence, featuring four guest speakers who shared the inspiring stories of their late family members who made history. The event was a powerful reminder of what African Americans have done for our society over the course of history and how they continue to do so today.
Elinor Thompson, Maryland Commissioner on African American History and Culture, introduced the speakers, spoke about growing up in Grasonville, and emphasized the need for continued education and awareness of Black history and culture. She talked about how important the Grasonville Community Center is in terms of history. The place where the community center is now was where the segregated Grasonville Colored School was. Thompson noted that a number of people in the audience once attended this school, and she hoped it would someday become registered as a national historic site in Queen Anne’s County.
Dr. Lisa Battle Singletary, daughter of Tuskegee Airman Leroy Battle was among the speakers at the event. She shared stories of her father’s experiences as a pioneering black pilot and his dedication to breaking down barriers in the military and beyond. Her father’s legacy is an inspiration to all who believe in the power of perseverance and determination.
Vera Jackson Williams from the Solomon Northrup Foundation also spoke at the event, sharing the story of her ancestor Solomon Northrup, whose life was the inspiration for the book and movie “12 Years a Slave.” Williams discussed the importance of preserving black history and culture, and the ongoing efforts of the foundation to promote education and awareness of the contributions of black Americans throughout history.
Justin Gilliam, also from the Solomon Northrup Foundation, shared the story of his great-grandfather, who was a prominent leader in the Civil Rights Movement and a pioneer in the field of education. Gilliam spoke about the importance of continuing his great-grandfather’s legacy of fighting for justice and equality, and the impact that one person can have on the world around them.
The event was a powerful reminder of the impact that individuals can have on the world around them, and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. We’re happy that the Grasonville Community Center was the site of such an important event, and we’re looking forward to doing more to educate, raise awareness, and bring people together in our community.
Thank you to Dr. Lisa Battle Singletary, Vera Jackson Williams, Justin Gilliam, and Elinor Thompson for sharing their stories and inspiring us all to strive for excellence.