Lewes Exhibit Preserves African American History

The Commemorative to Enslaved Peoples of Southern Maryland serves as a poignant memorial, utilizing polished steel to reflect the names of enslaved individuals onto the ground they once toiled, thereby reversing historical erasure. Located at St. Mary’s College, the monument also features 'erasure poetry' drawn from historical documents related to the Mackall-Brome plantation. In Virginia, The Family Reunion, an annual event founded by chef Kwame Onwuachi, celebrates diversity in the culinary field and highlights Black contributions to cuisine with over 1,000 attendees and renowned chefs. Meanwhile, in Lewes, Delaware, an exhibit titled 'Voices Heard' showcases a collection of 20th-century photographs that document the significant yet forgotten history of the local Black community. This exhibit, inspired by the photography of Darryl Daisey's godmother, received an enthusiastic response from the community, emphasizing the importance of preserving African American heritage. Collectively, these initiatives reflect a growing acknowledgment and celebration of Black history across various regions.