Return to main page
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?

Shante Anderson

I only learned the bare minimum in school. My family moved to NC from Maryland when I was very young and my brother and I and one other sister/brother were the only blacks in our elementary school. Racism was very prevalent in our area and we faced it almost daily. My mom married a man who would adopt my brother, sister and I and he was Native American. He very rarely talked positively about blacks and my mom rarely spoke positively of whites, so I grew up very confused. I do remember sitting in class, hearing about the slaves and feeling ashamed to be black. I did not want to belong to a race that did not fight back. Little did I know they had been fighting nonstop for centuries and centuries. I am learning more and more each day and continue to read, research and learn. I am currently attempting to trace my history and start a book to leave to my children and their children. Thanks for what you are doing. I really appreciate it.

Return to main page