Unlocked

Lift ev’ry voice and sing

‘Til earth and heaven ring

Ring with the harmonies of Liberty

Let our rejoicing rise

High as the list’ning skies

Let it resound loud as the rolling sea

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us

‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ – James Weldon Johnson

“Family trees go dark after five or six generations, a reminder that 150 years ago, black people weren’t considered people.

Genealogists refer to this as “the brick wall,” an obstruction in African American lineage that dates to 1870 when the federal Census began recording African descendants — 250 years after they were first hauled in chains to what would become the United States.

Before then, their lives existed on paper only as another person’s property. To penetrate the brick wall, black Americans frequently must rely on the names of their ancestors’ owners.”

–N., Ellis – Descendants – Feb. 25, 2020 https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/02/25/lost-lineage-quest-identify-black-americans-roots/?arc404=true

Throughout my life, conversations about ancestry always seemed to hit a ‘wall’. I always wanted to say exactly where my ancestors came from. I knew I was linked to Africa in some way but hoped I could go deeper. A few years ago, I decided to research my family history and DNA composition. By doing this, I found a lot of answers to my questions. But with more answers came more questions. I could only imagine what my ancestors faced as much of their history and identities were erased.

This Juneteenth, I think of all those who came before me and I am grateful for those who toiled, sacrificed, persevered through many challenges. Today, I am especially grateful for those known roots of my family tree like Martha Favors and Matilda Houston and those who are unknown.

Thou who hast by Thy might

Led us into the light

Keep us forever in the path, we pray

‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ – James Weldon Johnson

Even though many were treated as property, names were changed, identities were erased, and contributions were minimized or never acknowledged, their legacy is not defined by slavery. Their legacy is in me and those in my family. People of color…we must carry on many legacies. Although there are few names, pictures, records, or acknowledgements to their existence, their heart and strength exists through us. They may not have had the opportunities to fully unlock their potential but we will honor them by unlocking our potential with the knowledge we have. We must continue together towards the path of true equality, freedom, and understanding. 🙏🏿🤍✊🏿

“So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.”

John 8:36