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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?

Lenora Walter

Over the years I have become more intrigued with my black heritage. Now that I am older, I realize that important facts about black history was with held from the textbooks. For example, I was taught that Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. But what they didn’t tell me was that Lewis Lattimer assisted Thomas. And without his help the light bulb would not have been a success. I am truly grateful for Henry Gates, because he has the audacity to tell it like it is! I’ve seen some of his other documentaries and it’s always inspiring to see the black man’s journey. Each year I volunteer at my daughters’ school to teach black history facts. It is soo very important that this knowledge be passed on to our children. Because when we know where we came from, then we know where we are headed…….Amen.

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