I’m featured on NOLA.com
Thank you @The Times-Picayune | NOLA.com and writer Joy Holden for the write up about my work and passion preserving and documenting Black stories and narratives in Louisiana. I am also glad to be in an article alongside Alex Trapps Chabala and @Carly | Film Lover & Producer both doing tremendous work in their respective fields to tell and document stories. The culture of Louisiana owes so much to the many known and unknown Black folks whose stories, experiences, and culture fill every part of this state’s landscape.
As someone deeply invested in preserving Louisiana's Black history, I have found that combining storytelling with visual media creates a powerful way to connect people to the past. Traveling across Louisiana, I frequently visit historic sites like the Saint Simon Missionary Church in Natchitoches and the slave cabins on Magnolia Mound plantation in Baton Rouge. These places hold stories of resilience and culture that many overlook. One approach that has resonated well with my audience is sharing personal narratives tied to specific locations. For example, exploring plantation commissaries and explaining scrip money reveals layers of economic history often forgotten. Working closely with historians, such as genealogists like Alex Trapps Chabala, enriches the authenticity of these stories and fosters a collaborative community dedicated to preserving these narratives. Another crucial part of my work includes highlighting unsung heroes—midwives, healers, and ordinary people whose contributions shaped rural parishes like St. Landry. These stories are essential in understanding Louisiana's complex social fabric. Currently, I am involved in a documentary short about Jelly Roll Morton, blending historical context with creative filmmaking techniques. Collaboration with professionals like Carly LeDay enhances the production quality while keeping the educational impact front and center. By using platforms like social media and sites like NOLA.com, the reach of these stories extends beyond traditional boundaries. It is amazing to see audiences engaging with history visually and emotionally, fostering a deeper appreciation for Black culture and its pivotal role in Louisiana’s identity. I encourage anyone interested in history to explore these narratives and remember that behind every landmark is a wealth of lived experiences waiting to be discovered.