Black History - Who Am I?

Think “Reparations”.  What is my history?  I believe I’m entitled to know.  

Each time I read about the thrilling family history discoveries for a notable person, politician, entertainer, sports figure, etc.  I cringe.   With a bit of guilt I think, “it’s not fair”.  I’m entitled to know as much about me as current science is able to determine.   I’m special.  My people were forced into slave labor building the economic foundation that made America the world power it is today.

I’m the descendant of a slave; the shackled survivor arrived in America via ship hundreds of years ago.

Our family bible notes a great, great grandfather was released from slavery when he was 19 years old.  Where was he born?  Who were his parents?  Where did they live?  What were their accomplishments, or misadventures?  Who am I?

The same technology and expertise that informs the  ‘brand name individuals’ among us could also inform others and me.

There is a need to know.  Modern day immigrants know where they come from.   We don’t.   They are told, just as we are that Africa is where our ancestors lived.  Africa is the largest of all the continents.  Which country in Africa did my ancestors call home?

 “I am somebody” would have deeper meaning for many black citizens once they know who they are.   America needs this.  Our Nation will be stronger for doing what is possible.   There should be minimal out-of pocket expense to the descendant of an African snatched from his/her neighborhood hundreds of years ago and brought to these shores crammed in the hold of a cargo ship

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. and his “Finding Your Roots” production company might give excellent attention to this desire of mine.   I envision the establishment of a funded not-for-profit project providing the history over a specified number of years.  He might be convinced to expand his organization and take on this task important to America.
                                               Think “Reparations”.