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Many Rivers to Cross
African-American history has played an integral role in the shaping of politics, economics, and culture in the United States. Growing up, how did you learn about the accomplishments and struggles of African Americans? Were you in a classroom? Reading a book? Talking with relatives or friends? How has your understanding or knowledge of African-American history changed and/or developed over time? What do you think is the most effective way to pass along this rich and growing history to future generations?

Lee Weal

As a child growing up in the 60s, I learned about the civil rights movement by living it. My mother and her closest friends were active members of our local chapter of CORE (Congress of Racial Equality). My schoolmates had posters of The Beatles and The Supremes on their walls and I did too — alongside posters of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Angela Davis. As a child, I went to rallies and helped to make posters for demonstrations and sit-ins. I wish young people today could truly understand their culture and history and the many sacrifices of those who came before them. Too many people, both young and old, black and white, assume the struggle is over.

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