WASHINGTON WAS in VOGUE a Lost Novel of the Harlem Renaissance Plus

BOOKER T ashington WMover of Mountains PARENTING BEHIND BARS BROWN vs BOARD today WHEN WASHINGTON WAS IN VOGUE A Lost Novel of the Harlem Renaissance plus

RAMONA AUSTIN: ART, EYES, MEMORY

FREE www.soulofvirginia.com SPRING 2004 Volume 1 Issue 4

Publisher Kent Ruﬃn AAHA! VA Editor Rebekah L. Pierce Associate Editor Amanda Hutchison Art Director Jason Andrews Ink&Paper Design Photographer Theodore S. Holmes Contributing Writers Lorraine Blackwell Stacy Brooks Lelita L. Cannon Charisse Cecil Nicole S. Crawford Sharon Riddick Hoggard Mamie Moore India Pinkney Kenrya Rankin Amy Tillerson Arlene Williams Production Coordinator Valerie Parker Research Beverly Brownlee

Address correspondance to Editor P.O. Box 1217 Richmond, VA 23241-0171 Toll Free: 1-866-SOUL OF VA or 1-866-768-5638 or visit on the web at www.soulofvirginia.com

Soul of Virginia is published bimonthly by Soul of Virginia, Inc., 2004 All rights reserved under International and Pan-American copyright conventions. Reproduc- tion in whole or in-part without the written consent of the publisher is strictly prohib- ited. Soul of Virginia is printed in the United States of America. Editorial and advertising offices are at 1706 Floyd Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220. The magazine is given away free by advertisers and at selected locations statewide. A one year subscription is $24 for six issues and access to an electronic version of the magazine. For new subscriptions, renewals or change of address, write to Subscription Dept., P.O. Box 12171, Richmond, VA 23241-0171, call 1-866-SOUL OF VA or 1866-768-5638, or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Soul of Virginia, Inc. may share its mailing list with select organizations. Please notify the Subscription Department if you want your name removed from the magazine’s mailing list. For information about submitting editorial queries or photographs, please see our website, www. soulofvirginia.com. Articles and essays published in Soul of Virginia are works of journalism and not the official policy of Soul of Virginia, Inc. Articles about products do not constitute endorsments by Soul of Virginia, Inc., and publisher assumes no responsibility for the content of advertisements. Advertising rates are provided on request from the advertising office. This publication, pledged to the letter and spirit of equal housing opportunity, will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law. website: www.soulofvirginia.com

Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 1 deep budget cuts in social programs and record deficits; and local political scandals; a record legislative grid- Publisher’s Note lock - 54 day extended session plus legislative missteps. 2004 WAS A WILD RIDE Other significant events included: droughts, floods, VIRGINIA NEWS hurricanes; the 50th year celebration of Brown vs. Board of SPRING 2004 Volume 1 Issue 4 n anniversary issue always presents an opportunity Education; Attorney Oliver Hill’s recognition as a national Contents forA reflection. In looking back at 2003, it was one wild Human Treasurer; an education compensation fund for Staunton Festival! 4 ride for all of us who put Soul of Virginia together. those affected by the state’s “massive resistance to school By Stacy Brooks desegregation”; and an African American becoming Chief This magazine came about by inspiration, perspiration Justice for the State Supreme Court. This brief list reflects and dedication. Our business plan changed about as Virginia’s vast historical changes occurring in our midst. often as the next grantor’s requirements. Finally, in May 2003, we were off to the Virginia’s Governor’s In this issue’s cover stories, “BOOKER T. WASHINGTON FEATURES Conference on Tourism in Fairfax, VA, to see if the Mover of Mountains”, “Parenting Behind Bars”, “BROWN concept of a magazine was viable. The reception was vs. BOARD”, and Ramona Austin: Art, Eyes, Memory,” encouraging. With numerous requests for the magazine Soul of Virginia provides a look at how African American Parenting Behind Bars 9 coming to our website, we knew we had a chance. cultural heritage has evolved and where it is headed. By Bruce Twyman See whose full-time job as the Barrett Juvenile Correctional An entrepreneurial profile continues the theme with a Center Recreation Supervisor reaches far beyond exercise. Soul of Virginia published its first summer issue in view of African American business trends beyond 2004. July 2003. Given our growth, the importance of the magazine has become clearer. To assist us in maintaining In closing, many thanks to our writers, designers, printer a vital editorial focus we enlisted the assistance of and the other contributors who have given time and Brown vs Board 11 several knowledgeable and talented writers. Their talent to publish Soul of Virginia. Special recognition By Lorraine Blackwell How much has one of the biggest landmark cases in history work has been profiled in each issue. Soul of Virginia to Coastal Virginia for their continued and unwavering really affected schools today? has featured: shifting political, social and economic support. Our sincerest thanks to all who assisted in Soul winds- new General Assembly members and resignations; of Virginia’s first year of accomplishment. BOOKER T. WASHINGTON 14 Note: Lelita L. Cannon wrote “Karibu Books: Ten Years of Covering Books by Us for Us,” published in Winter, 2003 • Volume 1 Issue 3 of Soul of Virginia. There were several syntactical errors misprinted and taken out of context statements . We sincerely A Mover of Mountains apologize to the writer and our readers for all mistakes contained in the story. By India Pinkney

LITERARY Richmond’s ﬁrst wi-ﬁ hot On the Chesapeake at Reedville By Lelita L. Cannon 22 spot. Now serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ask about our box When Washington was in Vogue A Book by Christopher Williams 24 lunches and catering menus. NSU Alum Lives Her Dream 27 of Becoming a Hollywood Actress By Sharon Riddick Hoggard

CROSS CUT/TRIP TICKET

Civil Rights and Education Trail By Mamie Moore 30 814 west grace street richmond, va 23220 hours: t-th 9am-11pm, From Time To Time By Arlene Williams 33 fri. 9am-2am, sat. 5pm-2am 804.254.1942 BACKPAGE www.hyperlinkva.com Ramona Austin: Art, Eyes, Memory By Kenrya Rankin 34

2 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 cover photo: Gold Cup Steeplechase The Plains, Fauquier Co. Jeff Greenberg Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 3 VIRGINIA NEWS “Th is is an event people young and old look forward to every year,” Newman says. “It really is one great big, happy event. Staunton hosts two-day festival rich in culture ” By Stacy M. Brooks To Learn More: Thelma Newman, President African American Heritage Festival Foundation, s Hurricane Isabel blew its way through The festival begins on Saturday with a formal Inc. aVirginia last September, a volunteer group in the City opening by the Color Guard that sets the stage P.O. Box 2041 of Staunton prepared for their biggest celebration of for musical entertainment performed by regional th In addition, several health care exhibitors will Staunton, Virginia 24401 the year. It was the sweet 15 birthday for Staunton’s reggae, R&B and oldies artists. Visitors can also be present to answer questions, including the 540-886-3040 African American Heritage Festival, and not even enjoy the rhythm and moves of an African dance American Red Cross, which will provide free blood www.staunton.va.us Isabel could crash this party. troupe, and escape to far off times and places pressure tests and vital medical information on through African story telling and poetry readings diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Attention Vendors! “The storm blew over and the sun came out for two by local artists. On Sunday, the main tent will host Don’t miss your opportunity to exhibit at the 16th fun-fi lled days,” said Thelma Newman, President of Fun, educational activities are planned for children a traditional African American church service from Annual African American Heritage Festival in the African American Heritage Festival Foundation 10 – 11:30 am, followed by a gospel extravaganza of all ages. Kids can take a tour of a real fi re truck, make sand art, or have their faces painted. Staunton, VA! Inc. (AAHFF, Inc.). “Isabel could not stop us.” from 1 – 6 pm. AAHFF, Inc., was organized in 1989 for the purpose The Virginia Commission for the Arts and the City Deadline approaching. Call 540-886-3040 for Exhibitors come from as far away as Florida and of Staunton sponsors the festival. Staunton hotels your packet today! of planning the festival that celebrates the history are on-hand all weekend serving up palate pleasing and contributions African Americans have made to offer special rates for out-of-towners coming in to ethnic and American fare. Visitors can browse the enjoy the two-day event. Visit the website at www. Stacy Brooks is a freelance writer the city and the state. The festival refl ects upon and many arts and crafts booths featuring African staunton.va.us to learn more. based in Alexandria, Virginia highlights the rich heritage of African Americans American baseball memorabilia, leather crafts, found in music, dance, storytelling, literature, art, African and American pictures, woodcarvings, and religion and other cultural traditions. sponsors: Christian merchandise. Saturday, August 14th Planning for this year’s festival is well under way. 8:30 am to 2:00 pm According to Newman, people return to Staunton HEALTH FAIR 17th Street Farmers’ Market 17th & Main, Shockoe Bottom year after year to experience the traditions and history the festival provides. This year, Newman anticipates 5,000 attendees. Join us at the Farmers’ Market to embrace health, wellness and community spirit! For more information, contact: The 16th Annual African American Heritage Festival Featuring Educational Resources on: Susan Garnett, RN —Community Outreach will occur September 18 –19, 2004, from 10 am • Common Chronic Diseases • Physical Fitness Coordinator,- 804.644.2159 • – 6 pm each day, at the John Moxley parking lot • Relaxation Techniques • Proper Nutrition [email protected] (Thornrose Ave.). The event is free and open to the public, and offers cultural activities and attractions Other attractions include: CARMA Project • Your Health, Your for all ages. • Sunrise Workout • Door Prizes • Massages Life • Su salud, Su vida

4 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 5

CROSS CUT TRIPSTAUNTON’S TICKET 16th Annual T he CivilAfrican - RightsAmerican in EducationHeritage Festival 2004 Saturday & Sunday, September 18 & 19, 2004 Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, Virginia Herita10g AMe until 6:00T PM bothr adays il Ethnic FoodsA Gift .to Exhibits the Community & Lots More! For Information about this event and about Historic Staunton, call toll-free: 1-800-342-7982 By Mamie Moore n 1998 Lacy Ward, Lacy Ward Jr., and Rodney Lewis decided Ito give a gift back to the residents “Most of the Trail sites depended of South Central Virginia, a gift Civil Rights Advisor Kenneth L. on the community,” said Ward. Marcus, Associate Chief of U.S.D.A. that would heal the community and “We needed their help getting local remind residents of the importance Natural Resources Conservation offi cials to support our project.” Service Th omas Weber, and Virginia Complete the form below. Check a regional box to be eligible. This qualifi es you to recieve of embracing diversity. Th e notable SUMMER 2004 ADVERTISERS Secretary of Commerce and Trade an issue of Soul of Virginia Magazine. Go to www.soulofvirginia.com for more information. contributionW hwas thee Civiln Rightsco in okLocali residentse c wereu alsot tinstrumentaler w ill not do. Education Heritage Trail. Michael Schewel helped celebrate . Virginia Tech in developing components of the NAME Virginia Commonwealth theUn imomentousversity studen occasion.ts say dive rsity is . African American Heritage trail. Many civil rights trailblazers Festival Foundation “Th ere is a prominent African are still Virginia th residents;e word th at othersbest d escribes what’s so special about their ADDRESS CITY Th e Trail hopes to pull the community . YWCA American population in South have received history of the civil u n i v e r s i t y. Diversity is refltogether.ected in o Itur recountsstudent b manyody an importantd STATE ZIP PHONE E-MAIL . University of Virginia Central Virginia, but prior to this rights movement orally. Th e Old trail, no projects relating to this f a c u l t y, as well as in our astepscademi madec progr a byms , Nativeservices a Americans,nd . Greater Richmond Dominion RC&D Committee went African Americans, women, the What type of specialized tour(s) Convention Center particular population existed,” said to the community to receive some resources. Whether majoreconomicallying in the arts , b andusin e developmentallyss, education, are of interest to you? . Virginia Commonwealth University Lacy Ward of the Old Dominion of this information. Th e personal For subscription / mailing list challenged and others who endured . Pinpoints Resource Conservation & recollections were en wovengineeri n intog, lif e thescien ces, mass communications, pre-health decades of injustices. Check all that apply: . Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Development (RC&D) Committee. fabric of the Trail. sciences or social work, students shape their education to Family Walking Tours . Virginia Zoo “We knew this trail would have a How interested are you in a Heritage tour reflect their unique interesItt sstretches. 41 sites, 13 counties and Garden tours Long Weekend Getaways . Norfolk Botanical Gardens positive impact on the community.” After fi fteen years of hard work, with Soul of Virginia within the next year? the city of Petersburg. At 300 miles, Town and Country Cruises . Virginia State University research and planning, the Civil the self-guided driving tour would . American Rover After the masterminds behind Rights In Education Heritage Trail is Domestic Heritage tours ($1,400 - $3,000) VCU students don’t fittakea mold, nearlythey twocreate daystheir to complete,own. What Virginia regional area(s) are of interest to you? . Richmond Region Awards the project presented their idea, now open to visitors. Th e inaugural allowing time to enter buildings that Probably . Hyatt Arlington a committee to implement this opening of the museumCome s etooke for yplaceourse lf. revolutionary project was put in place are accessible to the public. Check all that apply: . Hyperlink Cafe this past spring to commemorate International Heritage tours ( $3,000 - $9,000) Blue Ridge Highland Central/Capitol immediately. However, the group th (800) 841-3638 . New Norfolk Convention the 50 anniversary of the historic Th e Civil Rights In Education Chesapeake Bay Region Eastern Shore & Visitors Bureau realized quickly they would need Supreme Court Case, Brown vs. Probably local support and more than history w w w.vcu.edu/ugrad Heritage Trail is expected to bring Hampton Roads The Heart of Applachia . Coastal Virginia An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action University Board of Education. Virginia books to bring the Trail to life, so Vas much C as $30 millionU annually I am interested in domestic Northern Virginia The Shenandoah Valley . Richmond Dept. of Public Utilities Governor Mark Warner, U.S. to Virginia’s economy. Th e Old . Rowena’s they turnedV i tor theg community.i n i a C o Departmentm m o ofn Educationw e a l t h U n i v e r s i t y and international study hours Dominion RC&D estimates Age . Dept. of Minority Business Income Level . Black History Museum . Down Home Family Reunion 286 Soul Soul of of Virginia Virginia . . SPRING SPRING 2004 2004 Education Level

Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice Salutes:

John Galloway

PARENTING BEHIND BARS BY BRUCE TWYMAN

John Galloway’s full-time job at the When Susan Heck, Ombudsman for Barrett Juvenile Correctional Cen- the DJJ, learned about Galloway’s ter is recreation supervisor. But, he’s program, she mentioned it to the seen through the eyes of the wards at department’s director, Jerrauld Barrett for much more than his skills C. Jones, who thought teaching John Galloway (right), director of DJJ Fatherhood at planning recreation programs. fatherhood was worthy of support. Program, and Rev. Duane T. Fields, Sr. (left), Soon there was a proposal for the director of the Fatherhood Program at Hanover Galloway doubles as the director of a fatherhood program at the Bon Juvenile Correctional Center. fatherhood program. It’s something Air Juvenile Correctional Center, he started six years ago when he another DJJ facility. Bon Air discovered, “A lot of young men we graduated its fi rst class this spring. “We’re here to were releasing had children when they came into the Department of Galloway, who is still busy punish those Juvenile Justice (DJJ), and they were graduating fathers from his original having trouble supporting their program at Barrett, also started who have children after they left us. Sometimes a class at DJJ’s nearby Hanover they were even being subpoenaed by Juvenile Correctional Center, where committed the courts concerning child support he provides information, respect and while they were still incarcerated.” support for even more fathers in need. crimes, but Galloway, employed by DJJ for 20 years, took up the cause for Th e fatherhood programs are we’re also here fatherhood after attending a implemented over a six to eight workshop in Virginia Beach led week period, providing educational to show these See what you’ve been missing! by Ron Clark, Director of the lectures and practical parenting Fatherhood Campaign at the exercises for young men. Fathers, young men there Virginia Department of Social and soon-to-be-fathers, within Services. Th e Virginia Fatherhood two to three months of their is a better way.” Campaign is a joint eff ort between release from DJJ, are eligible for Social Services and the Virginia the program. Sessions are held on Department of Health. topics such as Parenting Behind -Jerrauld C. Jones, Bars, Relationships and Budgeting, Virginia’s For about fi ve years, Galloway has Child Support Services and Child Director, Virginia run his successful program at Barrett Care Exercises. alone and somewhat informally. Department of But in the last year, the program Eddie Nelson, supervisor of has grown and he has started similar Child Support Services for the Multicultural programs at other facilities. Juvenile Justice Virginia Department of Health,

Program Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice • Director Jerrauld Jones 700 East Franklin Street, Magazine 4th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219

Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 9

and Ron Clark also volunteer time to Galloway’s As the director for the State’s juvenile justice programs, fatherhood programs. Nelson provides the young dads Jerrauld C. Jones puts the fatherhood programs in the with the child support information they need, while best perspective. “We’re here to punish those who have Clark discusses the responsibilities of being a father committed crimes, but we’re also here to show these and outlines community resources available to them, young men there is a better way. John Galloway’s eﬀort at including job placement and additional fatherhood teaching these juveniles how to be better fathers to their classes they can attend after their release. own children is in the best tradition of this department.”

According to Galloway, the support of Nelson and Clark But, the real impact can be seen in the letters Galloway is critical to the programs’ success. “The kids relate to us as receives from those who have attended his sessions African American men who work with them in the programs. and graduated; letters crediting him for providing the An important part of this is they get to see African American tools and outlook they need to be successful fathers to males place a value on fatherhood, when many of them did not their own kids. get a chance to see that growing up in their homes,” he said. Bruce is a Media/PR Coordinator for the Department of Juvenile Justice

Melvin Nunnally went without a formal education for five years after Most people agree it opened new the Prince Edward County School Board decided to close public schools in educational opportunities for black 1959 instead of desegregating. Nunnally, who was 10 years old then,Melvin now Nunnallychildren, went but without others asay formal not much reads at an eighth-grade level. Melvineducation Nunnally forhas five changed went years withoutinafter the the 50 ayearsPrince formal since educationEdward for fiveCounty the years Brown School after ruling. theBoard Prince decided Edward Rita Moseley, who was 12, spent two years without schooling beforeCounty herto family Schoolclose public Board schools decided in 1959 to close instead public These sentiments are fueled by the sent her to live with strangers so she could finish her last two years of school.of desegregating. Nunnally, who was 10 schools in 1959 insteadfact that of desegregating. many black students Nunnally, still who wasyears 10 years old then, old then, now nowreads reads at an at eighth-an eighth- grade level.attend segregated schools today, and Penny Stiff Hackett was scheduled to start first grade in 1959,grade but didn’t. level. She student achievement among black missed only a year of school because her parents arranged to have a teacher students still falls far below that of pick up their four children at a secret meeting place each day so theyRita could Moseley, who was 12, spent two Rita Moseley, who whitewas 12, students. spent Abouttwo years 70 percent without of be taken 30 miles to Appomattox County to get an education. years withoutAmerican schooling students before attend her family schools schoolingsent before her to herlivewhere familywith their strangers sent race her is so theto she live majority. with These three were among the roughly 450 students who werestrangers lockedcould outso shefinishof could Thather lastfinish average two her isyears aroundlast twoof school.the years same of in the all-black Robert R. Moton High School in Prince Edwardschool. County after the Commonwealth, according to a campaign of massive resistance to Brown vs. the Board of Education,Penny a Stiff HackettVirginia Educationwas scheduled Secretary, to Belle landmark legal case that struck down segregation in public schools. S. Wheelan. Penny start Stiff first Hackett grade was in 1959, scheduled but didn’t. to start She first missed only a year of school because On May 17, 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed segregation,grade her in saying 1959,parents but “Wearranged didn’t.have segregated to She have only schools a teacher missed in a lot of a separate schools for black and white students were inherentlyyear unequal. ofpick school up their becauseplaces,” four children herWheelan parents atsaid. a secret arranged“That doesn’t to mean we haven’t made progress. The have ameeting teacher place pick upeach their day fourso they children could atbe a Although desegregation did not come until 1964 in Prince Edward, the reality is that we have neighborhood ruling in the Brown case changed education in America andsecret continues taken meeting to 30 placemilesschools. eachto Appomattox And, day all of so our they neighborhoodsCounty could to be have an impact 50 years later. taken 30get milesan education. to areAppomattox largely segregated.” County to get an education.

10 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 SoulSoul of of Virginia Virginia . . SPRING SPRING 2004 2004 11 9

Wheelan said schools today are Wheelan points out that during fighting for those who were. The not as integrated as first envisioned segregation, black teachers were editor of the Farmville Herald seems because of the Supreme Court’s committed to educating black an unlikely warrior, considering decision to end court-ordered students, and parents were involved the newspaper played a leadership busing and white flight from inner in their children’s education. “That role in the massive resistance cities to the suburbs. Segregation doesn’t happen much today,” she campaign to the Brown ruling. today is more a consequence of said. “In our inner city schools, But Woodley said because of that, economics than race, she said. But teachers are social workers as well he felt the paper should also take a does the fact that segregation still as educators. They can’t do it by part in healing the community, and exists mean Brown didn’t work? themselves.” making amends for what happened in Prince Edward County. That’s Rita Moseley, now a secretary at Attitudes of blacks toward edu- why he approached state leaders Prince Edward High School, doesn’t cation have also changed, she about creating a scholarship fund think so. “At that time, people were added. “We valued education to help students. separated by force, now they are much more because we had to fight separated by choice,” Mosley said, for it. Now we just kind of take it The Virginia General Assembly adding the Brown ruling definitely for granted that it’s out there, and approved the legislation, and in made a difference for black students we’re entitled to it.” May, Governor Mark Warner in the county. signed a bill authorizing the fund In Prince Edward, black students before hundreds of Prince Edward “I think in our school system, we had to fight. White students rode students. Although the General have made the greatest improvement buses to their modern brick schools Assembly allotted only $50,000 of all of the schools that were and had new books while 450 black in its two-year budget, Warner involved in the Brown case,” she students used secondhand books and vowed to put $2 million into the said, pointing out that the school attended an overcrowded wooden scholarship program. is now 56 percent black, 42 percent school built in 1939 to house white and 2 percent other. “I think 180 students. The county built Some former students hope the the opportunities are out there for plywood shacks covered in tarpaper governor will make good on his everyone now in the system.” to handle the overcrowding. The promise, while others feel it is too buildings lacked adequate heating little, too late. Nunnally says there But Moseley is concerned about a and indoor plumbing as well as a is no way the State can replace the trend toward re-segregation. “I’m cafeteria or gym. five years that were taken away from fearful this could happen again him and other students. somewhere. Schools are just as seg- Sixteen-year-old Barbara Johns regated today, if not more so. I know led a student walkout in 1951 to if it’s like that, it can’t be equal as far protest the unequal conditions. as conditions.” The walkout led to a lawsuit that “They couldn’t was later combined with four other In Virginia, there are disparities cases, resulting in Brown. Attorney pay each student between poor, inner city school dis- Oliver Hill played an important tricts, like Richmond City, Peters- role in the Prince Edward case. But that was affected burg and Portsmouth, which are at a commemoration service earlier predominately black, and wealthier, this year, Hill said there is still in each different suburban districts, like Fairfax County, much work to be done. “We won way,” he said. which is predominately white. an important battle, but the war is still on. Issues, such as a decent “It’s not really Wheelan’s administration has sought education for all people and a living to address inequities by putting wage, still have not been adequately possible.” more resources into schools where addressed. True equality cannot be student achievement is low. achieved until all people are treated with respect,” he said. Lorraine Blackwell is a freelance There have been educational gains writer based in Richmond, Virginia. and losses since Brown, especially Ken Woodley wasn’t affected direct- She previously was a Richmond for black students. -ly by the school closings, but is Times-Dispatch writer for ten years.

12 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 13 Booker T. Washington’s name resides among the greatest African Americans of all times. His fortitude for excellence was unparalleled and his eﬀorts, while intensely questioned and challenged by critics, were relentless towards uplifting the black community.

Booker T. Washington began his life as a slave. Even though Washington was still a child when While his exact birth date is uncertain, historians the Civil War erupted and Lincoln issued the have narrowed the date to the Spring, probably Emancipation Proclamation, slavery made an imprint April, of 1856. He lived in a one-room log cabin on him as it did with every person who endured its near Hale’s Ford, Virginia, with his mother, sister and physical and psychological horrors. older brother. His mother selected his middle name, “Taliaferro,” which was the last name of a prominent A New Day family from Rocky Mount. But despite speculation, With newfound freedom came mass migration. there is no evidence the Taliaferros had any connection Freed slaves from the farm on which Washington to Booker T. Washington. His stepfather gave him the lived, migrated to other parts of Virginia and diﬀerent last name “Washington” years later. states. Prior to slavery’s end, Washington’s stepfather escaped to West Virginia.

A MOVER OF MOUNTAINS BY INDIA PINKNEY

14 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 15 l Following emancipation, Washington in 1895. His speech, presented not long after the and the rest of the family joined him. death of Frederick Douglass, was extremely appeasing to Southern whites and is now known widely as the He and his brother, John, were sent “Atlanta Compromise.” by their stepfather to work in the salt mines. While working there, a His words pushed for black self-improvement through school opened nearby. Washington’s industrial and educational opportunities that would stepfather refused to allow him to lead to economic strides. The speech downplayed attend, citing the necessity of their the need for integration. His famous quote, “[I]n all jobs. But Washington’s curiosity and things that are purely social we can be as separate as desire to learn intensified. the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essen- tial to mutual progress,” sent the crowd into an Understanding her son’s desire to explosion of applause. read and write, his mother struggled and bought him a spelling book. community through industrial education as opposed Many blacks at the Exposition felt a rush of pride by Eventually, he was able to join a night to purely intellectual pursuits. witnessing a black man make a speech at such a well- class that did not conflict with his known event, but also felt a sting of pain at his com- work at the salt mines. Washington’s Following a brief stint at Wayland Seminary in ments about blacks and his willing accommodation stepfather permitted him to at-tend Washington, D.C. and after considering law school, towards whites. day school if he remained diligent Washington accepted Armstrong’s invitation to return about working in the salt mines to Hampton Institute as a teacher. While teaching, Following his speech, W.E.B. DuBois, who later led before and after school. his belief deepened that blacks could achieve great the movement against Washington’s philosophies, sent heights through mastery of various trades. congratulatory remarks to him about the address. The Hampton Experience Years passed and Booker T. During Reconstruction, a period of rebuilding and In 1896, the Supreme Court handed down Plessy Washington’s desire for education reintegrating the South into the Union, the first black v. Ferguson, legalizing the “separate but equal” and upward movement increased. was elected to the Senate in 1870. Reconstruction undercurrent rocking the nation. In many ways, In 1872, he rode the train out of launched efforts by many blacks to push for civil Washington’s speech has been interpreted as fore- West Virginia, toward Richmond, and political rights. Washington disagreed with the shadowing the Plessy decision. Virginia, moving into a new era in timing of those efforts. He believed once blacks made his life. Once in Richmond, without substantial economic advancements, whites would When the nation elected Theodore Roosevelt into money or food, Wash-ington walked grant them civil and political equality automatically. the White House in the early 1900s, Washington to Hampton, Virginia and entered became an advisor to the President. Roosevelt relied Hampton Normal and Agricultural In 1881, a group of trustees contacted General upon him to recommend black political appointees Institute (Hampton Institute). Armstrong to recommend a person to head Tuskegee for posts, consulted him about presidential speeches Normal and Industrial Institute (Tuskegee Institute). to Congress, and requested his views on most issues While studying at Hampton Insti- The original request was for a white educator; however, concerning blacks. tute, General Samuel Chap-man Armstrong recommended Booker T. Washington, Armstrong became a mentor to who was accepted. Diverging Paths Washington. General Armstrong and The Niagara Movement founded Hampton Institute in The Compromise in Atlanta Over the years, the gulf between the ideological beliefs 1868 and became a direct influence The distinction between two burgeoning schools of of Washington and DuBois widened. During 1902, on many of Washington’s convic- thought was solidified during Washington’s address continued on page 18 tions concerning uplifting the black at the Cotton States Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia

16 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 17 Oct 08-09 Asia, Great Britain and the Caribbean The company’s Philadanco unique cultural gifts attract increasingly dedicated The American Theatre audiences in such major August 29- weaving contemporary 125 E. Mellen St. dance, music and theatre venues as Lincoln Center, September 1 Hampton, VA 23663. A (Labor Day Weekend) with the history, and cultural the Joyce Theatre and the professional company of and spiritual traditions of Brooklyn Academy of Music. 10th Annual American highly skilled dancers, African Americans and the Date/Hours: Fri-Sat, Oct Music Festival Philadanco emphasizes African diaspora. Fri-Sat, 08-09, 2004 (8-10 PM) innovative works by September 10-11, 2004 Admission Fee: $27.50 or The biggest music event on (8-10 PM) Admission Fee: American choreographers $32.50 Telephone: 757- the East Coast, the American $27.50 or $32.50 Tel: 757- in dramatic programs Music Festival held in 722-ARTS: (757) 722-2787 722-ARTS: (757)722-2787, that have great audience Virginia Beach, annually Fax: (757) 727-1621 Email: Fax: (757)727-1621 Email: appeal and consistently features a blockbuster line- americantheatre@hampton. [email protected] win unanimous critical up of national recording acts gov Website: www.the wwwtheamericantheatre.com praise. In this special playing the nation’s favorite americantheatre.com sounds. Performances take engagement, Philadanco place at the 17th and 24th explores the role of the Street oceanfront stages Oct 02 African American male along the boardwalk, as Fish Bowl Classic Football in an intriguing program well as at stages located on Game and Parade entitled “We Too Dance.” the sand at 5th and 29th Philadanco has appeared Streets. There are more Held at Norfolk State throughout the United than 50 concerts on 10 University is preceeded States, Europe, stages—most performances are free, although some by The Fish Bowl Classic require a nominal ticket Parade. For more than half fee.Contact: Beach events, a century, this annual event 757/425-3111 or visit www. has been sponsored by beacheventsfun.com. Arabia Temple #12. Parade starts at I.C. Norcom High School and travels down September 10-11 London Boulevard to Olde Urban Bush Women Towne Portsmouth. The Paradise is followed by the The American Theatre at 125 Fish Bowl Classic football E. Mellen St. Hampton, VA game, Saturday, October 02, 23663 Celebrates its 20th 2004 (Opens: 11:00 AM) anniversary, with a bold and Telephone: Arabia Temple life-afﬁrming programs, #12: (757) 397-0550, Clay Reid: (757) 467-5299, Phone: (757) 523-0069 Fax: (757) 467-5257 continued from page 15 in a critique of Washington’s auto- biography, Up From Slavery, DuBois spoke harshly on the involvement of wealthy white philanthropists in his social and economic mission.

Later, when DuBois published Th e Souls of Black Folk, in 1903, he again critiqued Washington’s philosophy on race and advancement. Th eir diﬀ erences widened into a chasm with the Niagara Movement in 1905, which soon juxtaposed to the Tuskegee Machine.

Th e Niagara Movement renounced industrialism in favor of the creation of a black professional class that would evolve into DuBois’ famous theory of the “Talented Tenth.” Dubois felt that if blacks human dignity were the same. As an educator, a had equal rights, they would the leaders central to the N.A.A.C.P.’s creation motivator and a leader, Booker T. Washington moved continue to remain second-class were also affi liated with the Niagara Movement. mountains and overcame the hurdles from his humble citizens regardless of their economic Th e Tuskegee Machine pushed against the new beginnings as a slave. achievements. He believed a small organization, and some members of the black community looked to R.R. Moton to negotiate between group of black intellectuals, edu- India Pinkney is an attorney and freelance cated in liberal arts, would lead the two groups. But while R.R. Moton attempted writer based in Alexandria, Virginia the masses into political and to build bridges, he still remained fi ercely loyal civil equality. He criticized Wash- to Washington. ington for asserting black leadership should “begin at the plow and not in Washington’s death on November 14, 1915, the Senate.” came after a life dedicated to uplifting the black community in America. His persona was full of Meanwhile, Robert Russa Moton, conviction, perseverance, and resolve. Rising from Subscribe to commandant of cadets at Hampton the bowels of slavery into the sweltering salt mines, Institute and Washington’s successor his determination to move beyond his circumstances Soul of Virginia as head of Tuskegee Institute, became propelled his life forward. a vital force in his inner circle. When the National Association for the Th ough controversial, his beliefs in economic gain for Now! Advancement of Colored People blacks through mastery of trades and industrial education (N.A.A.C.P.) formed in 1910, many arose from a part of him that knew blacks could make great strides. His strategies may have confl icted with visit www.soulofvirginia.com other leaders of the time, but the goals of equality and

20 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 21 LITERARY he celebrated Th alassic Center, on the banks of the In 1907, one steamship company catalog off ered ChesapeakeT Bay, is one of the major ports for the landing transportation, as well as lodging and food for $1 a day. of commercial fi sh in the United States, second only to Kodiak, Alaska. Operating from Reedville at present By the early 1900s, the fi shing industry was so signifi cant day is a large menhaden fi shing fl eet with 13 ocean- that Reedville was reported to be the wealthiest town going vessels. Th ere are three smaller menhaden boats and numerous sea vessels on which people engage in per capita in the U.S. Blacks undoubtedly contributed pound-net fi shing, crab potting and dredging, soft crab to making that a reality with their roles in menhaden processing, clamming and oystering. fi shing. Today, this golden era of prosperity is displayed in the Victorian mansions lining Reedville’s mile-long By the 1880s, this community, located in the heart of Main Street, a national historic district fl anked by water, Northern Neck, was becoming more populated and also known as “Millionaire’s Mile.” its economy emerging. Steamboats out of Baltimore, Maryland and Norfolk, Virginia, carried cargo such as hesapeake farm products and manufactured goods to and from river Visitors get a taste of past maritime living and view C communities across the Bay, docking at sea wharves and artifacts of that historic period by visiting the Reedville On the city markets to trade and sell. Fishermen’s Museum (RFM), founded in 1986. Here, they learn about the Northern Neck’s menhaden fi sh- Th is stowaway community, however, did not build, ing business, naval traditions and watermen’s heritage. at organize or tend itself. African American watermen could Th e Covington Building houses the permanent and be counted on to work as menhaden fi sherman and many Reedville of them relied on the bounty of the Bay as the foothold temporary galleries of the museum, and the Walker of their livelihood. House, a conventional restored waterman’s home, off ers a peek into daily life at the turn of the century. By Lelita L. Cannon Th ough the work was mainly seasonal — usually running from May until October, or when the climate In the water is a showcase of the Claud W. Somers, a 42- was warmer, as late as November or December — foot skipjack built in 1911 that tread Virginia waters until menhaden fi shing was gainful employment for men  in the Northern Neck in the fi rst half of the century, 1925, and the Elva C., a 55-foot traditional workboat especially men in their teens and twenties, since the built in 1922. Th e Somers was restored recently by a team work required great physical strength. of determined RFM volunteers working with experts at Cockrell’s Marine Railway, and the Elva, by the Reedville As many as 40 men would haul in a “purse seine,” a Marine Railway and local volunteers. Th e museum is in net fi lled with thousands of pounds of fi sh. Th e crews expansion mode, adding new infrastructures committed pulled the nets by hand and were primarily black, while to boat construction and model making projects as well the captain and mates were mostly white. Unfortunately, they would sometimes mistreat the workers by holding as an addition to the Covington Building. back a portion of each man’s pay to ensure he would stay for the duration of the fi shing season. The museum is open daily, May 1 – November 1, and open Friday – Monday, November 5 – January 18. January 19 Before the fi sh were heaved in, the crews were responsible – March 6, it is open to groups by appointment only and for shoveling up to a ton of coal onto steam-driven March 6 – April 25, it is open Saturday and Sunday. The vessels at quayside prior to heading out to sea to row museum’s operating hours are 10:30 am - 4:30 pm. It purse boats and haul heavy nets. Sometimes at sea for an is located at 504 Main Street, Reedville, Virginia. Self- , Elijah Reed, a New England unprecedented amount of time, the men endured vessels guided walking and driving tour brochures are available. In 1867 defi cient of amenities such as toilets or water for washing. Admission is $3 for adults and free for school groups and Th ey also lived with the constant, pungent odor of their children under age 12. Call (804) 453-6529 for more marine captain, trailed schools of menhaden fi sh into prey; menhaden, drenched in ammonia for preservation. information or visit http://www.rfmuseum.org.

the adored Chesapeake and purchased the land on With this somewhat harmonious divergence of culture, Note: Parts of this editorial were obtained from Harold Anderson’s essay, more communities developed in the nautical towns with “Menhaden Chanteys: An African American Maritime Legacy.” Cockrell’s Creek that is now known as the thriving general stores, post oﬃ ces and hotels springing up to ﬁ shing center of Reedville. serve the traveling public. Vacationing became popular, Lelita L. Cannon is a freelance writer and visitors migrated from cities to spend time at tourist based in Centerville, Virginia homes and hotels along commonly known rivers.

Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 23 REVIEWS ARL7694.01.a_Ad 6/7/04 11:52 AM Page 1 TURNINGTURNING THE PAGES For the love of Virginia’s Heritage WhenWashington visit www.soulofvirginia.com was in PUTTING THE VALUE back in family values. bourgeoisie socialites, strivers and imposters. At There's never been a better time to When Washington was in Vogue: A Love Story times, Davy is a gossip, relaying details of social escape to Hyatt Arlington. This summer,

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Offer valid for 20% discount off the regularly published rack rate for the requested room type at time of booking. Rate is per room, per night; based In cerebral moments, Davy comments on the ram- on double occupancy. Rate does not include, taxes, gratuities or other hotel specific charges. Limited number of rooms allocated for promotion. Additional guests may be subject to additional hotel charges. Promotional blackout periods may be in effect during certain time periods, and normal arrival/departure pant backbiting, one-upmanship and conspicuous restrictions apply. Hyatt reserves the right to alter or withdraw this program at any time. Hyatt Hotels and Resorts encompasses hotels managed, franchised or leased by two separate groups of companies- consump- tion of the black fair-to-middlin’ as well as Hyatt Corporation and its affiliates and affiliates of Hyatt International Corporation. ©2004 Hyatt Corp. Washington, D.C. was a sister city to the Big Apple The result is When Washington Was in Vogue, which upper classes. during the period known as the Harlem Renaissance. McKible presents as a “book of fi rsts.” “The book is Educators, such as Howard University professor written as a series of letters, and is most likely the The most delightful aspect of the story is the Alain Locke and Dunbar High School teachers fi rst epistolary novel in the African American literary slowest to unfold: the love between oblivious Jessie Fauset and Angelina Grimké, inhabited the tradition. It is also one of the earliest novels to offer Davy and shamelessly fl irty fl apper, Caroline. intellectual communities of both Washington and an extensive and realistic portrayal of the black A grade school teacher and graduate student, Harlem. Successful writers Jean Toomer, Richard middle- class in Washington, D.C. during the 1920’s. she is opposite Davy in every way save her wit Bruce Nugent, Langston Hughes and Zora Neal Edward Christopher Williams, the book’s author, and intellect. As you read, you witness the love Hurston were among those whose experiences in was the fi rst professionally trained black librarian in unfurling before Davy. In fact, at times, you may the Capital City infl uenced their cultural offerings. America.” The novel is a testament to the literary, wish you were Bob, so you could reply to Davy’s political and social offerings of African Americans enamored accounts of Caroline with a postcard of When Washington was in Vogue: A Love Story by both within and beyond Harlem. your own, saying: “You are in love, my friend!” Edward Christopher Williams, is a novel that calls Whether you’re a scholar of the Harlem Renaissance, for a reconsideration of the moniker “Harlem The protagonist, Davy Carr, a well-read and traveled a critic of culture and history, or a reader who enjoys Renaissance “as it illuminates 1922’s Black World War I veteran, writes voluminous letters to the tensions and triumphs of a love story, you will Washington middle class society. his bestfriend and Harlemite, Bob, detailing his new appreciate the keen insight, humor and extraordinary adventures making friends in the District. You soon life of Davy Carr. Read this novel as epistles from a In the mid-nineties, Adam McKible, then a doctoral cease to be the reader and become the recipient of dear friend, an insider, giving you a glimpse of life of candidate, happened upon a fi ctive serial published each heartfelt letter. When Washington Was in Vogue. anonymously as “The Letters of Davy Carr”, in The Messenger magazine, from January 1925 to Once engaged in the narrative, you’re no longer Charisse Cecil is an English major and African June 1926. While his studies took him in another reading a novel, but an insightful and often humorous American studies minor at George Mason University. direction, McKible was compelled years later to account of your dear straight-laced friend as he wades She also interns at Alexandria Black History Resource research the origins of the impressive series. through social waters fi lled with sassy young fl appers, Center in Alexandria, VA.

24 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 25 NSU Alum lives her dream of becoming a HOLLYWOOD ACTRESS

BBY SHARON RIDDICK HOGGARD

Her face is more recognizable than her name – she even admits it. She is immersed in a fast-paced, competitive, sometimes glamo- Her change in appearance and attitude opened a rous, but more often heart-breaking business few more doors. “I found out who I am. I’m a strong, – show business. Hard to reach by telephone, the independent, beautiful black woman. I’m not afraid actress who once graced the stage at Norfolk State to be out here on my own.” University’s Little Theater is hustling to get the best roles. “At NSU I gained an enormous foundation in the theater,” Dowse said, refl ecting on her student days. A military brat born in Honolulu, she traveled a great “I am a working actress,” deal with her parents while growing up. “NSU was she said proudly. my fi rst integration into a predominately African American environment. I worked in the campus post The 1981 graduate studied theater and acting under offi ce and worked as a lifeguard with Coach Archie one of Norfolk’s most talented performing artists, (William L. Archie).” Robert Wynn Jackson. “I work hard and I have learned to balance my career and life,” said Denise Dowse, She remembers professors and mentors at NSU. star of stage, television and soon to be big screen. “Coach Archie served as a role model for me and taught me so much about life, love and work. Norma Dowse has been in tinsel town for 15 years. “I’ve been Ragland [a professor in the English and foreign making money as an actress for 13 years and for 12 language departments] became a friend and mentor. years I have supported myself solely as an actress.” NSU gave me a wonderful base to start my career. Education was the key.” When she arrived on the Hollywood scene, she tried to fi t the mold of Hollywood actress. But, Dowse said, Dowse refl ects on her acting days at NSU, recalling she made a decision about three and half years ago the names of several student actors in the drama to do without the typical Hollywood look. troupe. “I worked with Jill Holley Jenkins, Stanley, Patrick, Kyle and John Jenkins. Over the years, we “I made the decision to cut out my weave. I pierced have stayed in touch.” my nose and started locking my hair. My manager wanted to lose her mind, but I explained that The NSU theater experience afforded her the I could take the earring out of my nose,” she quipped. opportunity to play Martha in a production of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” “Now where else could I have gotten an opportunity like that?”

26 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 27 As a freshman, I was booked in a leading role in It was a much sought after role. “Thomas Carter, It affords me an opportunity to affect people’s the production [Elizabeth Taylor played the role of who directed the television series White Shadow, is lives, to educate and entertain. I have been able to Martha in the 1966 fi lm version of “Who’s Afraid of also directing this fi lm,” she added. portray women in positive and powerful positions. Virginia Woolf?”]. It was quite a journey and I learned I’m sending out positive images.” Virginia’s multicultural so much about our culture.” “I’m also doing another movie, Unchain My Heart, which is the Ray Charles story. Jamie Foxx [known for Acting has opened up many doors for Denise Dowse. magazine distributes She has a long list of credits in television sitcoms, the character LaWanda, the world’s ugliest woman, She’s worked as an acting coach on the set of the series and dramas, such as Beverly Hills 90210, on the comedy variety show In Living Color] plays UPN sitcom Girlfriends and coached Malcolm Jamal copies Dragnet, The Guardian, The Practice, Becker; Ray Charles and I play a woman named Marlene, Warner. She teaches her craft to young people at 50,000 Chicago Hope, Murphy Brown, The Gregory Hines who is Charles’ fi rst manager. Basically, Ray Charles the Amazing Grace Conservatory. Show; Any Day Now; and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. becomes her boy toy,” Dowse laughs. “Jamie Foxx did his homework and he was brilliant.” Unchain My In the next few years, Dowse sees herself living out Dowse scored a Hollywood coup when she landed Heart will also be released in October of this year. another dream – Broadway. the role of Principal Garrison in the fi lm “Coach Carter”, with an expected October 2004 release. To aspiring actors, Dowse offers this advice: “You “Perhaps I’ll get married, own my own theater on She is cast opposite Samuel L. Jackson. gotta have a job (other than relying on winning a the East Coast and work with kids. I would love to role after you’ve read for some producer) and a come back to NSU to conduct theater workshops,” “It’s the real life story of a coach from Richmond, strong base of friends you can rely on. Be secure in she added. California who made his players sign contracts.” yourself, and be clear on why you want to be in the The students break the contract, their grades slip business. This town can be treacherous,” she added. The woman has a plan. And just think, before she 6 times a year and the coach locks them out of the gym and takes “What they don’t portray in the movies is the 14-17 became an actress, she was accepted into the Naval them to the library to help them get their grades up. hour long days and a lot of hurry up and wait.” Academy and wanted to become a fi refi ghter. I play the principal who hires the coach and, after for FREE ! awhile, gets the coach’s message that these are But Dowse loves acting. Despite all the Hollywood Sharon Riddick Hoggard is a freelance writer visit www.soulofvirginia.com student athletes and their education should come trappings, “I love acting and I love the theater. in Portsmouth, Virginia fi rst.”

28 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 29 CROSSCROSS CCUTUT TRIP TICKET Secretary of Commerce and Trade, According to Mr. Ward, the project has already begun to impact the Michael Schewel helped celebrate community. Now a national landmark, R.R. Moton High School was once the momentous occasion. almost history…literally. Some residents wanted the school torn down because it brought back bad memories. But now the community embraces Th e Trail hopes to pull the com- the school. Th e Old Dominion RC&D issued a Resolution of Regret munity together. It recounts many recently to the high school recognizing its struggles and accomplishments, T he Civil Rights important steps made by Native and stating its regret that others suﬀ ered from the school’s reaction to the Americans, African Americans, Brown vs. Board of Education ruling. women, the economically and in Education develop mentally challenged and others who endured decades of In addition to R.R. Moton High School, other Trail stops include: injustices.

It stretches 41 sites, 13 counties Earliest known public high and the City of Petersburg. At 1 PETERSBURG Heritage Trail 300 miles, the self-guided driving school for African Americans in Virginia. tour would take nearly two days to complete, allowing time to enter BUCKINGHAM COUNTY buildings that are accessible to the 2 A Gift to the Community public. Carter G. Woodson’s Birthplace 670, 1 mile east of Rt. 15 in New Canton. n 1998, Lacy Ward, Lacy Th e Civil Rights in Education Ward Jr., and Rodney Lewis By Mamie Moore Heritage Trail is expected to bring decided to give a gift back to as much as $30 million annually 3 CUMBERLAND COUNTY the residents of South Central to Virginia’s economy. Th e Old Cumberland Courthouse, birthplace of a literary fund IVirginia, a gift that would heal the Dominion RC&D estimate the for the economically disadvantaged in 1806, before community and remind residents lutionary project was put in place to receive some of this information. Trail could also generate the Virginia legislated that every county should have of the importance of embracing immediately. However, the group Th e personal recollections were wov- equivalent of 1,100 full-time diversity. Th e notable contribution realized quickly they would need en into the fabric of the Trail. jobs for the region, as travel- a literary fund. was the Civil Rights in Education local support and more than history related positions are created to Heritage Trail. books to bring the Trail to life, so After fi fteen years of hard work, accommodate tourists. they turned to the community. research and planning, the Civil Th e Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail is just one of many tourist “Th ere is a prominent African Rights in Education Heritage Th e Trail includes a number of activities off ered by Virginia’s Retreat, a tourism consortium, consisting American population in South “Most of the Trail sites depended Trail is now open to visitors. Th e richly historic sites, Robert Russa of 13 south central counties that promote tourism sites to the public. Central Virginia, but prior to this on the community,” said Ward. inaugural opening of the museum Moton High School being the most Virginia’s Retreat also includes two Civil War driving trails, Lee’s Retreat trail, no projects relating to this “We needed their help getting local took place this past spring to prominent. R. R. Moton High and Th e Wilson-Kautz Raid as well as an abundance of outdoor recreational particular population existed,” said offi cials to support our project.” commemorate the 50th anniversary School was selected as the anchor opportunities. Lacy Ward of the Old Dominion of the historic Supreme Court case, of the Trail for historic as well as Resource Conservation & Develop- Local residents were also instru- Brown vs. Board of Education. geographic reasons. Not only is For more information about the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail, ment (RC&D) Committee. “We mental in developing components Virginia Governor Mark Warner, it the site of the fi rst non-violent, contact Virginia’s Retreat 1-800-6RETREAT (800-673-8732) or visit knew this trail would have a positive of the trail. Many civil rights U.S. Department of Education student-led civil rights protest in their website at http://www.varetreat.com/civilrights.asp. impact on the community.” trailblazers are still Virginia resi- the United States, but the High dents; others have received the Civil Rights Advisor Kenneth L. School was also part of the his- Mamie Moore is a PR professional and freelance writer in Alexandria, Virginia After the masterminds behind history of the civil rights movement Marcus, Associate Chief of U.S. D.A. toric Brown v. Board of Education the project presented their idea, a orally. Th e Old Dominion RC &D Natural Resources Conservation Ser- case. Th e school closed its doors for committee to implement this revo- Committee went to the community vice Th omas Weber, and Virginia 5 years rather than integrate.

30 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 31 TIMELINE OF African American HISTORICAL EVENTS IN VIRGINIA By Arlene Williams

AUGUST

CIVIL RIGHTS JUNE August 1619 - Th e ﬁ rst Africans arrive at Jamestown, Virginia. August 21, 1831 – Th e Nat Turner uprising occurs, which is the THE MILITARY bloodiest and best-known slave revolt in American history in June 4, 1922 - Birth of Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., the First African Southampton, Virginia. Turner, a slave preacher, believed himself American to become an admiral in the U.S. Navy is born in to be divinely appointed to lead his people out Richmond, Virginia. of bondage.

SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY & EXPLORATION June 26, 1900 – Th e Woman’s League Training School opens in SEPTEMBER Richmond, Virginia. Th e facility contains an operating room with a hospital department and an industrial department. RELIGION & EDUCATION September 5, 1846 – Historian John W. Cromwell RELIGION & EDUCATION is born in Virginia. June 1865 – Blacks in Virginia seize full control of their churches September 17, 1861. Th e fi rst day of classes is held for freedmen after the fall of the Confederacy. Th ey name their own pastors and at a school opened by the American Missionary Association in used their buildings for worship as well as the education of their Virginia. members. September 1867 – John Jasper organizes Th e Sixth Mount Zion CIVIL RIGHTS Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia. Jasper goes on to become June 1866 – A Negro walks into the all white St. Paul’s Episcopal one of the nation’s well known post Civil War African American Church of Richmond, Virginia and sits in an unoccupied pew ministers. for services and at the fi rst call walks up to the altar and kneels. Th is act breaks the tension between blacks and white concerning POLITICS segregation in the church. September 7, 1948 – Oliver Hill is sworn in as a Richmond City Council member, becoming the fi rst African American to be elected to the council since the Reconstruction era and was elected JULY as a result of the Richmond Citizens Association. Hill was a Richmond lawyer and a member of the NAACP Legal LITERATURE Defense Fund. Sociologist Charles S. Johnson is born in Bristol, Virginia. BUSINESS He founded the National Urban League magazine, Opportunity September 26, 1867 –Business and Civic leader Maggie and serves as a president of Fisk University. Lena Walker is born in Richmond, Virginia. Walker becomes a pioneering black businesswoman, becoming the fi rst woman to CIVIL WAR head a bank, the St. Luke’s Penny Savings Bank. As a civic leader July 30, 1864 – Black soldiers of the Union army fi ght she was dedicated to improving the fortune of black citizens both against Confederate defense in Petersburg, Virginia in Richmond and elsewhere. exhibiting exceptional heroism.

32 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 33 “All But the Dissertation” degree. She then followed her passion to Tervuren, Belgium as a Belgian- American Foundation Fellow at the Royal Museum for Central Africa, from November 1982 through May 1984 (again with those precise dates); to Zaire for her pre-dissertation field study; and to Washington, D.C. for a ten-month Pre-Doctoral Fellowship at the Smithsonian. A stint at the Art Institute of Chicago (1987-1994) led to a position as the Margaret McDermott Associate Curator for African Art at the Dallas Museum of Art (1994-2001)— the BY KENRYA M. RANKIN aforementioned rap sheet, ladies and gentlemen. of Theater & Acting and Directing. While complet- Austin’s desire to lead and her admiration for ing her program’s English requirement at neighboring Hampton Museum pushed her to seek her current Ramona Austin Simpson College in 1973, she saw a one-woman position. “One of the things that attracted me to show. When the performer left the touring circuit, Hampton is the fact that the collections are stellar,” Austin was selected as her replacement. “It offered she explains. “I always wanted to do a directorship. me an opportunity to do theater the way I wanted The opportunity came and I took it.” She attributes to do it,” she explains. And she did, embarking on her work to “being at the right place, at the right tereotypes are alive and well. When you read a 16-year journey performing her dramatization time, with the right people.” a rap sheet that includes stints at Yale and a of African American literature, “New Seed,” at S While the position of leader calls for some Fulbright-Hays Pre-Dissertation Fellowship in Zaire, universities across the country. it’s hard not to conjure up images of the person everyday tasks such as managing budgets and staff who earned these credits. You’d most likely picture Meanwhile, she was a member of the inaugural and building an endowment, Austin feels her real a hard-nosed, no nonsense woman, a nerd, a snob class of the African American Studies Master’s mission is “to preserve, collect and disseminate program at Yale, finishing with a degree in Art information on the [art] collection.” This is a charge even, immersed in her own accomplishments. Why History and beginning a foray into art academia she takes seriously, aiming to connect with the local not picture these clichés to describe the stereotype? that would last a lifetime. community, the Hampton University population You’d picture wrong. and the academic world. But Austin doesn’t feel she’s strayed from her acting She describes herself as expansive, focused and sincere, and on first roots. “I’ve never considered myself not [to be] an Her challenge meets serious opposition in another conversation, Ramona Austin, the Director of Hampton University actor or director. That’s just too much a part of my stereotype still walking among us: Museums are Museum and Archives, lives up to her character sketch. Austin comes identity.” She incorporates her past experience in her boring tombs, moldy repositories for the past. across as humble, down to earth and precise, remembering she began current work, orchestrating exhibits as she would This myth needs to be shattered now so that it her work at the museum on August 16, 2001. While it’s clear she’s a direct a play. She even hopes to get back on stage can remain forever broken. scholar, she isn’t condescending. one day, citing the adage mothers everywhere have According to a 1998 study published by the American doled out for centuries, “Everything has its time and How did she get to this place? Growing up in Chicago, she always knew she would be an artist. “From a small Association of Museums, there are 865 million an- everything has its season.” child, I knew the arts were the thing that I would do,” she explains. “I drew spaces when I was young. I was the nual museum visits to the U.S.’s 15,000 museums— one who organized everybody else into plays.” After completing her Art History degree, Austin a 50 percent increase over the past decade. Museums The Catholic schools she attended had great theater programs and, true to her youthful vision, she selected decided to seek the full academic art world experience rank in the top three family vacation destinations dramatic theater as her medium while still in high school. She won a scholarship to The Theatre School at and won entrance to Yale’s doctorate program, and provide an excellent education to students Goodman, now part of DePaul University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in her double majors working on what she now calls candidly, an ABD, nationwide, with 88 percent of American museums offering programs for K-12 students.

34 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 Soul of Virginia . SPRING 2004 35 Virginia Department of Minority Business Enterprise Salutes Featured Entrepreneur Tracey Jeter, President Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council (VMSDC), an aﬃliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, is a membership organization of major corporations, government agencies, universities and Virginia-based companies. Among its members, are 200 corporations and approximately 375 certiﬁed minority businesses.

racey Jeter brings a wealth of talent, enthusiasm • Business Consortium Fund for expanding andT business experience to her position. A former capital loans, receivable/inventory financ- magazine entrepreneur, she understands clearly the ing, and specialized financing to certified challenges and triumphs of business ownership. minority-owned companies.

“Business revolves around managing competing • A quarterly newsletter, Business Connec- “Community service is relationships to meet the customer’s needs within tions, that highlights partnerships between an important element in the marketplace,” explains Mrs. Jeter. A graduate corporate members and Minority Business of Old Dominion University with a Bachelor Enterprises. a well-rounded lifestyle.” Black art collections move beyond The museum has currently what preserved because it is a part of of Arts degree in Speech Communications, she the statistics and “art for art’s sake” Austin describes as a “racially- the entire American story.” commits, as she describes it, to “strengthening and • Scholarship awards for minority business Jeter served the Commonwealth of refining her understanding of the who’s, what’s, owners to attend business executive programs Virginia for five years as Special Assistant to to foster a greater understanding of mixed” visitors base, attracting how’s, when’s, why’s and where’s of business.” such as the Amos Tuck School of Business the President of Virginia State University African American and American about 32,000 people last year. Hampton University Museum at Dartmouth College; Darden School at in Petersburg, Virginia. Her duties is located in The Huntington “Here, at VMSDC, I work with eleven staff persons The University of Virginia; the University included serving as liaison to the Virginia culture. Founded in 1868 when Austin and her staff hope to who handle a wide array of services and activities,” of Wisconsin; and Kellogg, at Northwestern State University Board of Visitors and the idea of museums was just reach 50,000 annual visits Building on East Queen Street in she says. Our VMSDC’s primary mission is to University. senior speechwriter and policy advisor for Hampton, VA. Call (757) 727- service corporate members as follows: the president. Additionally, she was lead catching on in America, Hampton through increased advertising • Awards and special recognition for out- advisor on media relations and represented University Museum stands as a and program expansion. Austin 5308 for more information. • Certification of minority business enterprises standing corporate programs that support the President’s Office on numerous to confirm companies are owned, controlled, minority business development. committees and special initiatives within testament to the foresight of the offers this challenge to herself Kenrya M. Rankin is a New York City-based and operated by persons representing a racial the University community and for the University’s founder, General and the people of Virginia. “Be freelance writer. She penned “Rex’s Roots” for minority groups. • Golf tournaments that offer a fun and easy Commonwealth of Virginia. Samuel Chapman Armstrong. vigilant with integrity. Make SOV’s Winter 2003 issue. way to develop business relationships. • Ensuring that members receive timely She serves on the Board of Directors for Austin emphasizes, “Hampton sure that a part of the story that contracting and procurement information, • Business activities such as the “Virginia Business the Girl Scouts Commonwealth Council takes its place as a great museum. has been overlooked in the past available through the BizBoard, an automatic Opportunity Fair,” that gives participants of Virginia and is a member of the Central bid notification information source. access to hundreds of buyers and business Virginia Film Board where she chairs You need to understand the is overlooked no longer and is owners. Matchmakers are held three times the Communications Committee. Jeter history of Black intellegencia and • Maintain a system of corporate member a year where one-to-one appointments are is 3rd Vice President for Organizational its importance to the writings.” referrals and their RFP specifications to scheduled between members and MBEs. Development, Public Relations Society minority-business owners. of America’s Richmond Chapter and has She describes her program as “an “As you can see, minority business her professional Accreditation in Public artifact of the Black reconstruction • Advocate for corporate minority business development is a critical component to the Relations (APR). A Leadership Metro development programs with buyer orien- success of this organization,” Jeter offers. Richmond (LMR ’99) alumni, she that gives an understanding of tation sessions. “First, it is the right way to run a business by also participates as a Lunch Buddy for Black culture of the late 19th and gaining access to the largest pool of products several elementary and middle schools th • “match-makers”,“corporate connection, and and service providers. Second, competition throughout the Richmond Public Schools early 20 centuries.” “mentors” for one-to-one advice on establishing among potential providers keeps the price system. or improving supplier diversity programs. low and generates innovation. Third, it builds Austin feels her museum’s 9,000- community wealth, creates jobs and maintain A native of Richmond, Virginia and a piece collection (plus another Mrs. Jeter cites additional ways the VMSDC buying power for American consumers. product of Richmond Public Schools, advances minority business development, Jeter is an active member of Saint Paul’s two million University archive including: Simply, doing business with minority Baptist Church. She is married to items) is a must-see on the road suppliers makes good business sense and Dewayne F. Jeter, Jr. of Richmond and has VMSDC is the bridge to make that successful two children, Lauren and Dewayne III. to preserving history to prepare connection,” she adds. for the future. She stresses the importance of African Americans Program Sponsored by the Virginia Department of Minority Business Enterprise • Executive Director Ed L. Hamm Jr. 9th Street supporting Black institutions. Office Building, 11th Floor, Richmond, Virginia 23219 • www.dmbe.state.va.us

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