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Playlist: 'Griot'

Compiled By: StoryCorps

StoryCorps Facilitator Lillie Love passed away on June 25, 2010. <a href="http://www.prx.org/pieces/49444-storycorps-griot-lillie-love">Listen here</a>, to her positive persective on life. Credit:
StoryCorps Facilitator Lillie Love passed away on June 25, 2010. Listen here, to her positive persective on life.

StoryCorps' collection of African American stories from all across the country.

StoryCorps Griot: Carl McNair

From StoryCorps | 02:14

Carl McNair remembers his brother, Ronald McNair, who was one of the astronauts killed aboard the space shuttle Challenger on January 28, 1986.

Mcnair_small On the morning of January 28, 1986, the space shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after lifting off. All seven crew members were killed. Ronald McNair was one of the astronauts aboard the shuttle that day. Here, his older brother, Carl McNair, remembers him.

StoryCorps Griot: Diane Kenney and Linda Kenney Miller

From StoryCorps | 01:31

Linda Kenney Miller (R) and her sister Diane Kenney (L) remember their grandfather, Dr. John A. Kenney, who founded the first hospital for African Americans in Newark, NJ.

Millerl_small In the 1920s, Dr. John A. Kenney left Tuskegee, Alabama after receiving death threats from the Ku Klux Klan. He moved to Newark, New Jersey, and helped found the city's first hospital for African-Americans.

Here, his granddaughters Linda Kenney Miller and her sister Diane Kenney remember their grandfather, and his dedication to the hospital.

StoryCorps Griot: Ron and Pepper Miller

From StoryCorps | 02:04

Pepper and Ron Miller talk about what led to their divorce.

Millerp_small Ron and Pepper Miller met 25 years ago. They fell in love and got married, but it didn't work out.

Here, they talk about what went wrong.

StoryCorps Griot: James and Dwight Thompson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:47

James Hanover Thompson tells his brother Dwight about his involvement in the "Kissing Case" of 1958.

Thompson_small In 1958, two African-American children, James Hanover Thompson and David Simpson, were arrested for allegedly kissing a girl who was white.

Here, James Hanover Thompson and his siblings Dwight and Brenda remember their involvement in the now-infamous "Kissing Case."

StoryCorps Griot: William Anthony Cobb

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 05:08

William Anthony Cobb tells his mother, Mary, about the influence she had on him. William Anthony also talks with his sister, Valerie Foster, about their mother.

Cobb1_small William Anthony Cobb came to StoryCorps with his mother, Mary Cobb, and told her about the influence she had on him.

A few months after their interview, Mary passed away of pancreatic cancer at the age of 67. William Anthony then returned to StoryCorps with his sister, Valerie Foster, to remember their mother.

StoryCorps Griot: Mary Johnson

From StoryCorps | 03:03

Mary Johnson speaks with Oshea Israel, who killed her son in 1993.

Johnsonm_small Mary Johnson's son, Laramiun, was shot and killed by Oshea Israel in 1993. Israel served 17 years in prison.

Here, Mary talks with her son's killer.

StoryCorps Griot: Walter Dean and Christopher Myers

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 01:46

Author Walter Dean Myers talks about his father in an interview with his son Christopher Myers.

Myers_small Author Walter Dean Myers grew up in Harlem, the son of a janitor. Myers began writing as a teenager, but always failed to impress his father with his writing.

Here, Myers talks about his father with his own son, Christopher.

StoryCorps Griot: Andrea and Jay McKnight

From StoryCorps | 02:19

Andrea McKnight and her husband, Jay, remember meeting as teenagers in the 1950s.

Mcknight_small James "Jay" McKnight and his wife, Andrea, met as teenagers in Brooklyn, New York. Jay and his friends used to sing on the street corner, and Andrea was an admirer.

Here, Jay and Andrea talk about how their early romance turned into a marriage that has lasted for more than 50 years.

StoryCorps Griot: George and Katie Robinson

From StoryCorps | 02:21

George Robinson tells his daughter, Katie, about meeting his biological father after searching for more than 40 years.

Robinson_small George Robinson grew up not knowing his biological father, but always wondered what he was like. For more than 40 years George searched for his dad and eventually tracked him down on the internet.

Here, George tells his daughter, Katie, about first meeting his dad.

StoryCorps: Warren, Robin and Jason Weems

From StoryCorps | 02:01

Warren Weems (R), who is a teacher's aide in his wife, Robin's, first-grade classroom, is interviewed by his son Jason (L).

Weems_small Warren Weems, a retired Marine, is now a classroom assistant in his wife, Robin's, first-grade class.

Here, Warren talks with Robin and his son Jason, who is a kindergarten teacher in the same school.

StoryCorps Griot: Ellaraino and Baki AnNur

From StoryCorps | 02:22

72-year-old Ellaraino tells her friend Baki AnNur about meeting her great-grandmother for the first time.

Ellaraino_small 72-year-old Ellaraino tells her friend Baki AnNur about being sent away for the summer to a small town in Louisiana, where she met her great-grandmother for the first time.

StoryCorps Griot: Earl and Ashley Reynolds

From StoryCorps | 02:40

Earl Reynolds Jr. tells his daughter, Ashley, about meeting James Brown at his father's barbershop in Roanoke, Virginia.

Reynolds_small When Earl Reynolds Jr. was 11 years old, he shined shoes at his father's barbershop in Roanoke, Va.  Here he tells his daughter, Ashley, about a valuable lesson he learned from a customer -- the late James Brown. 

StoryCorps Griot: Mary Morris

From StoryCorps | 02:16

Mary Morris remembers her husband, Thomas, one of two Washington D.C. postal workers who died from exposure to anthrax in October, 2001.

Morris_small Thomas Morris was a U.S. Postal Service worker for 28 years. He was working in Washington D.C. when anthrax laced letters targeting senators and major media outlets appeared in the mail. He was one of two postal workers who died in October 2001 as a result of these biochemical attacks. His widow, Mary Morris, came to StoryCorps to remember their life together–starting with the day they met at a family funeral.

StoryCorps Griot: John Klein and Bernice Flournoy

From StoryCorps | 01:50

John Klein remembers meeting the love of his life, Mary Ann Allen, with her daughter Bernice Flournoy.

Klein_small John Klein tells Bernice Flournoy about falling in love with her mother, Mary Ann Allen, while he was working as a maintenance man at a senior citizen facility in Oakland, CA.

StoryCorps Griot: A.P. Tureaud Jr. and Steven Walkley

From StoryCorps | 01:58

A.P. Tureaud Jr. tells his friend Steven Walkley about becoming the first African-American undergraduate at Louisiana State University in 1953.

Tureaud_small A.P. Tureaud Jr. tells his friend Steven Walkley about becoming the first African-American undergraduate at Louisiana State University in 1953.

StoryCorps Griot: Queen Jackson and Debra MacKillop

From StoryCorps | 02:16

Queen Jackson tells her case manager, Debra MacKillop, how she became homeless.

Jacksonq_small Queen Jackson tells her case manager, Debra MacKillop, how she became homeless.

StoryCorps NTI: Ayodeji Ogunniyi

From StoryCorps | 02:15

Ayodeji Ogunniyi describes how the death of his father inspired him to become a teacher.

Ogunniyi_small

In 1990, Ayodeji Ogunniyi left Nigeria, along with his mother and brother, to come to the United States. They arrived in Chicago, joining Ayodeji’s father, Abimbola “Yinka” Ogunniyi, who’d arrived a few years earlier, and was working as a cab driver.

Abimbola always wanted Ayodeji to be a doctor.  But while Ayodeji was studying pre-med in college, his father was murdered on the job.

At StoryCorps, Ayodeji talked about how his father’s death changed the course of his life.

StoryCorps Griot: Richard Bennett and Craig Williams

From StoryCorps | 01:53

Iraq War veteran Richard Bennett talks with Craig Williams about how they became unlikely business partners.

Bennett_small Iraq War veteran Richard Bennett talks with Craig Williams about how they became unlikely business partners.

StoryCorps Griot: Karen Slade, Eric "Rico" Reed and Arthur "Sonny" Williams

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:28

Karen Slade, Eric "Rico" Reed, and Arthur "Sonny" Williams of radio station KJLH remember the 1992 Los Angeles Riots.

Slade_small In 1992, Los Angeles police officers were charged — then acquitted — of assaulting Rodney King.

The news sparked riots in the city, and no neighborhood was hit harder than South Central LA.

KJLH was an urban R&B station located on Crenshaw Boulevard, at the heart of the riots.

Karen Slade, the general manager, Eric “Rico” Reed, a DJ, and Arthur “Sonny” Williams, KJLH’s driver, remember what happened during those days.

StoryCorps NTI: Tyrese Graham

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:16

Tyrese Graham remembers his first day as a teacher at John Marshall Metropolitan High School in Chicago, IL.

Grahamt_small Tyrese Graham is a second year science teacher at John Marshall Metropolitan High School on the West Side of Chicago. When he started teaching, Marshall was among the worst public schools in the city. At StoryCorps, Tyrese talked about his first day on the job.

StoryCorps Griot: Robert Holmes

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:01

Robert Holmes talks about his family being among the first to integrate a neighborhood in Edison, New Jersey.

Holmes_small

When Robert Holmes was a kid, his family moved to a white section of Edison, New Jersey.

It was 1956, and they were one of the first African American families to integrate the neighborhood.

Today, Robert Holmes is a professor at Rutgers Law School.

StoryCorps: Adrian Hawkins and Horace Atwater Jr.

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:00

Adrian Hawkins talks to his foster father, Horace Atwater Jr.

Hawkins_small

Adrian Hawkins spent his childhood bouncing between foster families.

It wasn’t until 2004, when he was a teenager, that he found a home with Horace Atwater Jr.

The two came to StoryCorps to remember when they first met.

StoryCorps: J.T. Johnson and Al Lingo

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:04

J.T. Johnson and Al Lingo remember having acid thrown on them after jumping into a whites-only swimming pool in St. Augustine, Florida in June of 1964.

Johnsonjt_small

On June 18th, 1964, J.T. Johnson and Al Lingo were two of several black and white protesters who jumped into the whites-only pool at the Monson Motor Lodge in St. Augustine, Florida.

At StoryCorps, they talked about how the owner of the hotel tried to force them out by pouring acid into the pool.

StoryCorps: Cheri Lindsay and Phillip Lindsay

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:22

Cheri Lindsay talks with her father, Phillip, about vitiligo, a rare skin condition they share...

Lindsay_small

Cheri Lindsay and her father, Phillip, both have vitiligo, a rare skin condition that runs in their family.

People with vitiligo gradually lose pigment in their skin, often in patches that appear randomly and can grow over time.

Cheri’s condition has spread so dramatically over the past four years that most of her face and body now appear white.

At StoryCorps, Cheri remembered when her vitiligo first started to spread.

StoryCorps: Kai Leigh Harriott and Aja David

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:20

Aja David and her younger sister, Kai Leigh Harriott, remember the night Kai was hit...

Harriott_small

Fourteen-year-old Kai Leigh Harriott is paralyzed from the chest down, the result of a stray bullet that hit her when she was three.

She was sitting outside on her porch in Dorchester, Massachusetts with her older sister Aja David, who was babysitting at the time.

The family is still dealing with the aftermath of the shooting a decade later.

StoryCorps: Alex Landau and Patsy Hathaway

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:34

Alex Landau, who is African American, and his adoptive mother, Patsy Hathaway, who is white,...

Landaunpr_small

In 2009, Alex Landau was a student at Community College of Denver. After a traffic stop one night, he was severely beaten by Denver Police officers.

Alex is African-American. He was adopted by a white couple and he grew up in largely white, middle-class suburbs of Denver.

Alex and his mother, Patsy Hathaway, came to StoryCorps to talk about how Alex’s race has influenced his life and what happened that night when police pulled him over.

WARNING–this story contains graphic imagery and language.

In 2011, Alex was awarded a $795,000 settlement by the City of Denver.

Two of the officers involved have since been fired from the Denver Police for other incidents. 

StoryCorps: Darnell Moore and Bryan Epps

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:43

Darnell Moore (R) tells his friend Bryan Epps (L) about an incident that shaped his...

Moore_small

When Darnell Moore (R) was a teenager in Camden, New Jersey, he didn’t know he was gay, but he did know he was an outcast.

It was the late 1980s and Darnell was a mild-mannered A-student in a city where kids were expected to be tough.

He told his longtime friend Brian Epps (L) about growing up in his neighborhood–and about an incident that shaped his youth.

StoryCorps: Alton Yates and Toni Yates

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 04:24

Alton Yates tells his daughter, Toni, about being part of a small group of Air...

Yatesta_small

As a teenager, Alton Yates (L) did a job that helped send people into space.

In the mid-1950s, before NASA existed, Yates was part of a small group of Air Force volunteers who tested the effects of high speeds on the body. They were strapped to rocket-propelled sleds that hurtled down a track at more 600 miles per hour and stopped in a matter of seconds. These experiments helped prove that space travel was safe for humans.

At StoryCorps, Yates told his daughter, Toni, that — for him — the story starts in high school, shortly after his mother died.

After leaving the Air Force in 1959, Alton Yates became involved with the Civil Rights Movement in his hometown of Jacksonville, FL. On August 27, 1960, he attended a sit-in that turned violent, and became known as Ax Handle Day. 

StoryCorps: Darius Clark Monroe and David Ned

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:41

Seventeen years after Darius Clark Monroe robbed a bank at gunpoint, he came to StoryCorps...

Monroe_small

In 1997, Darius Clark Monroe (L) was a high school honor student who had never been in serious trouble.

But soon after his 16th birthday, he robbed a bank in Stafford, Texas at gunpoint with two of his friends.

Seventeen years later, he sat down at StoryCorps with David Ned, a customer who was in the bank during the robbery.

David and Darius became acquainted while Darius was a film student making a documentary about the robbery called Evolution of a Criminal.

 

StoryCorps Griot: Mario Loiseau and Mabou Loiseau

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 01:48

Mario Loiseau talks with his 9-year-old daughter, Mabou, about why he works so hard to provide for her education.

Loiseaunpr_small

Mario Loiseau is a Haitian immigrant who works two jobs, including long hours as a parking lot attendant in New York City.

He does this to help pay for his 9-year-old daughter, Mabou’s, tutoring. She is a science and language prodigy, and is already studying college-level algebra.

The two of them sat down together for StoryCorps, so Mabou could ask him some questions.

StoryCorps: Walter Naegle and Ericka Naegle

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:33

Walter Naegle tells his niece, Ericka, about the unconventional decision that he and his partner, Bayard Rustin, made to protect their union.

Naeglenpr_small

On the heels of a historic Supreme Court ruling that upholds the right of LGBTQ people to marry, we look to the late 1970s--a time where this week’s ruling on marriage equality was unimaginable.

Back then, the iconic civil rights leader Bayard Rustin and his partner, Walter Naegle, a man decades his junior, fell in love. They were together for many years.

As Bayard was getting older, they decided to formalize their relationship in the only way that was possible for gay people at the time--Rustin adopted Walter Naegle.

Here, Walter tells his niece, Ericka, what it was like to fall in love with Bayard, and the unconventional decision they made to protect their union.

StoryCorps: Monica Harwell and Andrea Cleveland

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 01:59

Monica Harwell, talks to her daughter, Andrea Cleveland, about being the first woman to climb electric utility poles for ConEd in New York.

Harwellnpr_small

In 1991, Monica Harwell became the first woman to climb electric utility poles for ConEdison in New York.

As a line constructor, her job was to install power lines dozens of feet in the air.

She worked alongside men whose families had been working on the lines for generations.

At StoryCorps, she tells her daughter, Andrea Cleveland -- who now also works for ConEdison -- that many of them never thought she’d make it.

StoryCorps Griot: Burnell Cotlon and Lillie Cotlon

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:11

Burnell Cotlon owns and operates the only grocery store in the Lower Ninth Ward. When it opened in 2014, it was the first grocery store to serve that neighborhood since Hurricane Katrina. Here, he speaks with his mother, Lillie.

Cotlonhomepage1_small

For New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward, the section of the city hit hardest by Hurricane Katrina and the flooding that followed, recovery has been slow.

Nearly ten years after the storm, the neighborhood still did not have a single grocery store. But Ninth Ward resident Burnell Cotlon set out to change that.

Using money saved while working at fast food restaurants and dollar stores, he bought a dilapidated building on an empty block.

And in 2014 he opened the Lower Ninth Ward’s first grocery store since the storm.

At StoryCorps, he sat down with his mother, Lillie, to remember the days after the flood.

StoryCorps 9/11: Isaac Feliciano

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:39

Isaac Feliciano, a longtime worker at Brooklyn's historic Green-Wood Cemetery, remembers being at his job on September 11, 2001, when his wife, Rosa Maria Feliciano, was killed while working in the World Trade Center.

Felicianonpr_small

Isaac Feliciano has been working at Brooklyn’s historic Green-Wood cemetery for 21 years. He has done many jobs there and is currently a field foreman, supervising landscape and maintenance workers on the grounds.

On September 11, 2001 he dropped his wife off at the subway so she could get to her job at Marsh & McLennan in the South Tower of the World Trade Center. He then headed to work at Green-Wood.

StoryCorps: Erik Booker and Jenna Power

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:36

Eighth grader Jenna Power talks with her seventh grade social studies teacher, Erik Booker, about his military service and his deployment to Iraq.

Bookernpr_small

Erik Booker is a seventh grade social studies teacher at Bates Middle School in Sumter, South Carolina. He served more than 20 years in the United States Army, including two deployments to Iraq.

Last year Jenna Power was a student in Mr. Booker’s class. Like Mr. Booker, her father also served in Iraq as a member of the Army. Without it ever having been spoken, Jenna immediately recognized traits in Mr. Booker that connected him to her father and their shared service.

The two of them sat down at StoryCorps so Jenna could interview her teacher about his time at war.

StoryCorps Griot: Willie Harris and Alex Brown

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:30

Willie Harris and Alex Brown remember the prejudice they faced as African American stuntmen while breaking into the film industry in the 1960s.

Harriswnpr1_small

Since the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences announced the nominees for the 2016 Oscars, there has been outrage both online and in the press. For the second year in a row, all 20 individuals nominated in the acting categories are white. The outcry has been so great that the Academy’s governing board voted to add new members in order to increase diversity in the coming years.
 
For some African Americans who have spent decades around the film industry, this continues to spotlight an age-old problem.
Willie Harris and Alex Brown came to Hollywood in the 1960s dreaming of breaking into the movies as stuntmen. Both were athletic and strong, but despite their qualifications, stunt coordinators repeatedly turned them away.
 
Realizing that movie studios had little interest in hiring black stuntmen—many wouldn’t even open stages and gyms for them to practice in—they continued to hone their skills training and practicing in public parks around Los Angeles. They would leap from bleachers onto donated mattresses and practice elaborate driving maneuvers using rented cars.
 
Eventually, Willie and Alex were able to break into the industry. They became original members of the Black Stuntmen’s Association spending decades in Hollywood taking and throwing punches in films like The Color Purple and the James Bond classic Live and Let Die.
 
Willie and Alex came to StoryCorps to remember how they broke into the movies.

StoryCorps OutLoud: Carole Smiley with Seth and Octavius Smiley-Humphries

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:23

Seth Smiley and Octavius Humphries had their first date on Christmas Eve. They discuss that and other memorable holiday events they have shared.

Smiley-humphriesnpr_small

Hoping to meet someone special, in 2010 Seth Smiley decided to give online dating a try. Soon after posting his profile, Octavius Humphries reached out to him and they began an email correspondence.

Despite their age difference—Seth is 19 years older than Octavius—they immediately hit it off, bonding over their shared search for “commitment, consistency, and (a) connection.”

Eventually they met in person, going on their first date on Christmas Eve. Unsure of Octavius’ plans for the holiday, Seth invited him to dinner the next night at his family’s Atlanta home. Octavius, who was still grieving the deaths of his parents, had, unbeknownst to Seth, planned on spending the holiday alone. Instead, he reluctantly accepted Seth’s invitation.

At StoryCorps, Octavius (above left) and Seth (above right), along with Seth’s mother, Carole Smiley, sat down to remember their first Christmas together, as well as a more recent memorable holiday event.

StoryCorps: Clarence “Clancy” Haskett and Jerry Collier

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:09

Clarence ”Clancy” Haskett talks with his friend and former coworker about his long and successful career as a beer vendor for the Baltimore Orioles.

Haskettnpr5_small

This past weekend marked the official opening of the 2016 Major League Baseball season. And while the games now count in the standings, it won’t be until the weather warms up that the competition on the field will really heat up. But in the stands, there is a battle taking place that won’t wait until summer: the fight to be top vendor.
 
As anyone who has ever been to a baseball game knows, vendors roam the stands offering anything from hot dogs and peanuts, to scorecards and foam fingers. They are in a head-to-head competition with each other to sell the most of whatever product they are assigned, and one of the all-time greats is a man known as “Fancy Clancy.”
 
As a teenager, Clarence Haskett began selling soda at Baltimore Orioles games back when they played their home games at Memorial Stadium (the team moved to their current home, Camden Yards, in 1992). Over the years, he worked his way up to the vendor’s most prized offering—beer.
 
During his 43-year long career, Clancy has used his quickness and his gift of gab to sell more than a million beers to baseball fans—a number we believe makes him Hall of Fame worthy.
 
Clancy came to StoryCorps with his friend and former coworker, Jerry Collier, to talk about their work and how he got started.
Clancy’s story is one of 53 work stories featured in our new book, Callings: The Purpose and Passion of Work.
 
Click here to pre-order Callings before April 19, 2016, and get great gifts from StoryCorps.

StoryCorps: Jamal Faison and Born Blackwell

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:39

Jamal Faison talks with his uncle, Born Blackwell, about his release from Rikers Island and the support he received through the challenges of re-entry.

Faisonnpr_small

In February of 2012, Jamal Faison was a 20-year-old college sophomore home on school break in New York City when he, along with two others, were arrested for attempting to steal mobile devices from a subway rider.

Transit police arrested Jamal and he spent the next eight months on Rikers Island--New York City’s massive main jail complex that can house as many as 15,000 people at one time.

While incarcerated, Jamal struggled with the difficult conditions on Rikers and turned to his uncle, Born Blackwell, for support. Throughout his teens, Jamal had been close with Born, and during those eight months, almost weekly, Born made the arduous trip from his home in Brooklyn to visit his nephew. His uncle’s support, telling him to “keep his head” and reminding him, “just because they treat you like an animal doesn’t mean you have to act like one,” soothed Jamal and helped him maintain a sense of worth while knowing that one day he would again be free.

In September 2012, Jamal pleaded guilty to grand larceny and attempted robbery charges and a month later was released from custody. Dropped off in Queens around 2:00 AM, he immediately understood the challenges that would await him outside jail knowing that his conviction would haunt him and his opportunities would be limited.

One year after his re-entry, Jamal became a father and is now raising his son as a single parent, and he hopes to someday return to college and resume his studies. He works at The Osborne Association--a New York-based nonprofit that helps people who have been in conflict with the law change their lives--mentoring youth and helping people who have been incarcerated find employment.

Jamal came to StoryCorps with Born to remember the night he was released from Rikers, and to discuss how their relationship supported Jamal through the conditions of his incarceration.

Originally aired June 3, 2016 on NPR’s Morning Edition.

StoryCorps Griot: Alice Mitchell and Ibukun Owolabi

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:45

Alice Mitchell and her 10-year-old brother, Ibukun, came to StoryCorps to talk for the first time about their mother who died just weeks after his birth.

Owolabinpr_small Growing up, Alice Mitchell was always very close with her mother Rosemary Owolabi. A Nigerian immigrant as proud of her heritage as she was of her children, Rosemary would pick Alice up from school dressed in vibrantly colored garments and head-wraps.

When Alice was 14, her mother died unexpectedly from cardiac arrest just two weeks after giving birth to her youngest child, a boy she named Ibukunoluwa, which translates to “Blessing from God.”

Alice was immediately forced to become both sister and mother to her new brother, who they call Ibukun, and took the lead in raising him the way she believed her mother would have wanted him brought up.

Now 10 years old, Ibukun lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his father and stepmother. Over the years he has seen pictures and heard stories about his mother, but came to StoryCorps with Alice to talk for the first time about losing their mother.

Originally aired July 1, 2016 on NPR’s Morning Edition.

StoryCorps Griot: Anthony Merkerson and Charles Jones

From StoryCorps | 02:57

Two fathers of children on the autistic spectrum talk about the concerns they have for their sons — two young black men growing up with autism.

Jonesnpr1_small Charles Jones was already a father to three daughters when he found out his fourth child was going to be a boy. He was so excited by the news that even before Malik was born, Charles began plotting ways he would get the new baby into playing and loving sports--the same way his own father had done with him--even joking to others that he had already bought him New York Knicks season tickets.

When Malik was two and a half years old, he was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Like many parents of children on the autistic spectrum, Charles and his wife struggled to adjust to their son’s unexpected needs, but over time, they worked together to better understand autism and Malik. Early on, Charles feared his son would be non-verbal, unable to even speak his own name or say, “I love you,” but eventually Malik, now 12, began talking, and according to his father, once he did, “He wouldn’t shut up.”

Charles decided to start a support group for fathers like himself to provide a space for them to feel safe sharing their feelings. Five years ago, at a New York Mets game on Autism Awareness Day, Charles met Anthony Merkerson. Anthony has two children--Elijah, 10, and Amaya, 7--who are both on the autistic spectrum. After meeting Charles, Anthony joined the support group and they have since become close friends.

Charles, a filmmaker, came to StoryCorps with Anthony, a New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority police officer, to talk about what they have learned from one another, and the concerns they have for their sons as young black men growing up in a society where they are at constant risk of being targeted and misunderstood because they are autistic.

Originally aired July 15, 2016 on NPR’s Morning Edition.

StoryCorps Griot: Carlos Walton and Jim Saint Germain

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:45

Jim Saint Germain and his former middle school dean discuss pivotal moments in their relationship and lessons Jim learned from his mentor.

Saintgermainnpr_small Jim Saint Germain’s family moved to New York City from Haiti in 2000. They left with the hope of having a better life than the one they left behind, but for 10-year-old Jim, the adjustment was difficult.

His family moved into a small Brooklyn apartment where the quarters were so tight that Jim was forced to sleep in a closet, and at one point, 15 people were living in the home at once. By the time he was in eighth grade, Jim’s behavior had worsened and he was struggling in school. He was frequently in fights and his teachers began singling him out as a troublemaker.

Around that time, Carlos Walton, then the dean of Jim’s middle school, stepped in.

Carlos was known as an educator with the rare ability to connect with harder-to-reach kids. He had grown up in a tough Brooklyn neighborhood and used straight talk, a firm handshake, and big hugs to reach students.

Carlos saw himself in Jim and when Jim got kicked out of his apartment, Carlos took him into his own home to help give him time to figure things out. And while their relationship has had its moments, Jim is currently studying for his master’s degree at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and this past weekend he served as a groomsman at Carlos’ wedding.

Jim and Carlos came to StoryCorps to remember some of the pivotal moments in their relationship.

Originally aired July 22, 2016 on NPR’s Morning Edition.

StoryCorps Griot: Melva Washington Toomer and John Washington

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:34

John Washington, 95, who is blind and deaf, recently recorded a StoryCorps interview with his eldest child, Melva, using a TeleBraille machine.

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John Washington was born blind and with a severe loss of hearing that has become more extreme over time. Just before he turned 30, he met his future wife, Fannie Ruth, who was also blind and deaf. In 1950 they got married, and remained together for 55 years having three children together--Melva, Warren, and Canady--before Fannie Ruth passed away in 2005.
John, who did not finish high school, began reading books in braille “to learn the ways of life,” and went on to teach others to read braille as well. He spent years working as a massage therapist, and in 1952, in what he considers one of his proudest achievements, he helped found the first braille magazine in the United States focused solely on issues important to the African American community—The Negro Braille Magazine.
Now 95 years old, John recently recorded a StoryCorps interview with his eldest child, Melva Washington Toomer, using a TeleBraille machine, a device that requires Melva to type her questions on a keyboard which are then translated to a braille touchpad for her father to read.
At StoryCorps, he shared some of his favorite stories about raising his children, and asked his daughter an important question about what she plans to do with him as he continues to move closer to being 100 years old.
Besides using a TeleBraille machine, John also speaks with others through fingerspelling–a method of communication where words are spelled out directly into his hand by another person using the American Sign Language alphabet.
Originally aired August 19, 2016 on NPR’s Morning Edition.

StoryCorps: Ellie Dahmer and Bettie Dahmer

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:30

Vernon Dahmer was a successful farmer who fought for voting rights in the mid-1960s. His family recalls the night he was killed by the KKK.

Storycorps_logov1_cmyk_small Vernon Dahmer was a successful black farmer and businessman in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, who fought for voting rights in the mid-1960s. He was killed January 10, 1966, after the Ku Klux Klan firebombed his home. At StoryCorps, his widow, Ellie Dahmer, and daughter Bettie Dahmer, remember that night.

StoryCorps: Ed Roy and Mary Johnson-Roy

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:00

Mary Johnson-Roy first came to StoryCorps in 2011 to talk about her bond with the young man who killed her son. Years later, she married a man who lives with a similar tragedy. StoryCorps brings an update to her story.

Roynpr_small Mary Johnson-Roy first came to StoryCorps in 2011 to talk about her bond with the young man who killed her son. Years later, she married a man who lives with a similar tragedy. StoryCorps brings an update to her story.

StoryCorps: Darrow Brown and Juan Calvo

From StoryCorps | 02:52

Now, a conversation that reminds us how being a father can be about much more than biology.

In 2007, after volunteering to care for infants born to drug-addicted mothers in Baltimore, Juan Calvo knew he wanted to do more. So he and his husband, Darrow Brown, became foster dads. At StoryCorps, they remember the moment they met their first child and talk about the heartbreak and joy of being foster parents.

Two years later, they adopted their, son, Lucas, who is now 7 years old. They continue to open their home to foster children.

Calvonpr_small Now, a conversation that reminds us how being a father can be about much more than biology. In 2007, after volunteering to care for infants born to drug-addicted mothers in Baltimore, Juan Calvo knew he wanted to do more. So he and his husband, Darrow Brown, became foster dads. At StoryCorps, they remember the moment they met their first child and talk about the heartbreak and joy of being foster parents. Two years later, they adopted their, son, Lucas, who is now 7 years old. They continue to open their home to foster children.

StoryCorps: Emily Addison

From StoryCorps | 03:54

On June 12, 2016 a lone gunman killed 49 people at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida.Among those killed was Deonka Drayton. She was 32.

Deonka left behind a young son and her co-parent, Emily Addison. At StoryCorps, Emily sat down to remember her.

There were hundreds of people at Pulse the night of the shooting, and some were able to escape in time.

Addison3_small On June 12, 2016 a lone gunman killed 49 people at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida.Among those killed was Deonka Drayton. She was 32. Deonka left behind a young son and her co-parent, Emily Addison. At StoryCorps, Emily sat down to remember her. There were hundreds of people at Pulse the night of the shooting, and some were able to escape in time.

StoryCorps: Five Mualimm-ak and Omar Mualimmak

From StoryCorps | 02:52

StoryCorps gives people the chance to sit down together and have a conversation they’ve never had before. Five Mualimm-ak did just that with his son, Omar, who was five years old when his father was first incarcerated.

By the time Mr. Mualimm-ak was finished serving his sentence for weapons charges, he had been in prison for nearly a dozen years, many of those spent in solitary confinement. When he was released in 2012, Omar was a senior in high school. The two have had difficulty connecting since then. They came to StoryCorps together to talk about their relationship for the first time.

Mualimm-aksquare_small StoryCorps gives people the chance to sit down together and have a conversation they’ve never had before. Five Mualimm-ak did just that with his son, Omar, who was five years old when his father was first incarcerated. By the time Mr. Mualimm-ak was finished serving his sentence for weapons charges, he had been in prison for nearly a dozen years, many of those spent in solitary confinement. When he was released in 2012, Omar was a senior in high school. The two have had difficulty connecting since then. They came to StoryCorps together to talk about their relationship for the first time.

StoryCorps: Dawn Sahr and Asma Jama

From StoryCorps | 03:24

One night, in October 2015, Asma Jama went out for dinner with her family at an Applebee’s restaurant in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Asma, who is Somali American and Muslim, was wearing a hijab, as she always does.

While Asma was talking with her cousin in Swahili, a woman named Jodie Bruchard-Risch, who was seated nearby, told her to speak English or go back to her country. When Asma responded to say that she was a U.S. citizen, the woman smashed a beer mug across Asma’s face. She was rushed to the hospital and required 17 stitches in her face, hands and chest.

Bruchard-Risch pleaded guilty to felony assault charges and served time in jail for the crime. After the trial, her sister, Dawn Sahr, contacted Asma online and they struck up a correspondence.

At StoryCorps, Dawn and Asma met in person for the first time.

Jama2_small One night, in October 2015, Asma Jama went out for dinner with her family at an Applebee’s restaurant in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Asma, who is Somali American and Muslim, was wearing a hijab, as she always does. While Asma was talking with her cousin in Swahili, a woman named Jodie Bruchard-Risch, who was seated nearby, told her to speak English or go back to her country. When Asma responded to say that she was a U.S. citizen, the woman smashed a beer mug across Asma’s face. She was rushed to the hospital and required 17 stitches in her face, hands and chest. Bruchard-Risch pleaded guilty to felony assault charges and served time in jail for the crime. After the trial, her sister, Dawn Sahr, contacted Asma online and they struck up a correspondence. At StoryCorps, Dawn and Asma met in person for the first time.

StoryCorps: Francine Anderson

From StoryCorps | 02:46

Francine Anderson grew up in rural Virginia during the 1950s. It was the Jim Crow South and “Whites Only” signs punctuated the windows of many businesses. Francine came to StoryCorps to talk about one night when she became aware of what those signs meant for her family.

Editor’s note: This story contains a quote where a racial slur is used.

Andersonsquare_small Francine Anderson grew up in rural Virginia during the 1950s. It was the Jim Crow South and “Whites Only” signs punctuated the windows of many businesses. Francine came to StoryCorps to talk about one night when she became aware of what those signs meant for her family. Editor’s note: This story contains a quote where a racial slur is used.

StoryCorps: William Lynn Weaver

From StoryCorps | 03:04

You may recall the voice of Dr. William “Lynn” Weaver from a StoryCorps interview he did back in 2007, where he talked about his father, Ted Weaver — the most important man in his life.

He later came back to StoryCorps to remember someone else who had a huge influence on him: his 7th grade science teacher, Mr. Edward O. Hill.
In the fall of 1964, Weaver was 14 years old and about to start his sophomore year of high school in Knoxville, Tennessee, when, along with 13 other black students, he integrated previously all-white West High School.

At StoryCorps, he talks about what happened on his first day at West High.

Weaversquare_small You may recall the voice of Dr. William “Lynn” Weaver from a StoryCorps interview he did back in 2007, where he talked about his father, Ted Weaver — the most important man in his life. He later came back to StoryCorps to remember someone else who had a huge influence on him: his 7th grade science teacher, Mr. Edward O. Hill. In the fall of 1964, Weaver was 14 years old and about to start his sophomore year of high school in Knoxville, Tennessee, when, along with 13 other black students, he integrated previously all-white West High School. At StoryCorps, he talks about what happened on his first day at West High.

StoryCorps: William Lynn Weaver

From StoryCorps | 05:41

In 1964, Dr. William Lynn Weaver was one of 14 black teens who integrated West High School in Knoxville, Tennessee. At StoryCorps, he spoke about his experiences in the classroom and how difficult it was for him to get a quality education there.

Dr. Weaver also integrated the school’s all-white football team, along with other black players, including his older brother, Stanley. Here, he talks about what it was like to play for the West High School Rebels.

Weaversquare_small In 1964, Dr. William Lynn Weaver was one of 14 black teens who integrated West High School in Knoxville, Tennessee. At StoryCorps, he spoke about his experiences in the classroom and how difficult it was for him to get a quality education there. Dr. Weaver also integrated the school’s all-white football team, along with other black players, including his older brother, Stanley. Here, he talks about what it was like to play for the West High School Rebels.

StoryCorps: Johnny Holmes and Christian Picciolini

From StoryCorps | 02:19

In the 1990s, Johnny Holmes was head of security at a high school in Blue Island, Illinois, located just outside of Chicago, where he met Christian Picciolini, a teenage student who was the leader of a local neo-Nazi group.

Christian was involved for eight years before he renounced the movement’s racist principles. Today, he devotes himself to helping others leave hate groups.

He credits Johnny with being the person who helped turn him around; they came to StoryCorps to remember how it happened.

Christian founded EXIT Solutions, a global organization of former extremists with a mission to help people to leave hateful and violent ideologies.

Johnny now serves on his local school board.

Editor’s note: This story contains a quote where a racial slur is used.

Holmessquare_small In the 1990s, Johnny Holmes was head of security at a high school in Blue Island, Illinois, located just outside of Chicago, where he met Christian Picciolini, a teenage student who was the leader of a local neo-Nazi group. Christian was involved for eight years before he renounced the movement’s racist principles. Today, he devotes himself to helping others leave hate groups. He credits Johnny with being the person who helped turn him around; they came to StoryCorps to remember how it happened. Christian founded EXIT Solutions, a global organization of former extremists with a mission to help people to leave hateful and violent ideologies. Johnny now serves on his local school board. Editor’s note: This story contains a quote where a racial slur is used.

StoryCorps: Ronald Clark and Jamilah Clark

From StoryCorps | 02:11

During the 1940s, custodians who worked for the New York Public Library often lived inside the buildings they tended. In exchange for cleaning and keeping the building secure at night, the library provided an apartment for the custodian and their families.

Ronald Clark’s father, Raymond, was one of those custodians. For three decades he lived with his family on the top floor of the Washington Heights branch on St. Nicholas Avenue in upper Manhattan. Three generations of the Clark family resided in that library until Ronald’s father retired in the late 1970s.

After college, Ronald got a position as a professor teaching history at Cape Cod Community College.

At StoryCorps, Ronald told his daughter, Jamilah Clark, how living inside the library shaped the man he would become.

Clarksquare_small During the 1940s, custodians who worked for the New York Public Library often lived inside the buildings they tended. In exchange for cleaning and keeping the building secure at night, the library provided an apartment for the custodian and their families. Ronald Clark’s father, Raymond, was one of those custodians. For three decades he lived with his family on the top floor of the Washington Heights branch on St. Nicholas Avenue in upper Manhattan. Three generations of the Clark family resided in that library until Ronald’s father retired in the late 1970s. After college, Ronald got a position as a professor teaching history at Cape Cod Community College. At StoryCorps, Ronald told his daughter, Jamilah Clark, how living inside the library shaped the man he would become.

StoryCorps: William Lynn Weaver

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:30

Dr. William Lynn Weaver remembers one Christmas when he was 18 years old in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Weaversquare_small Dr. William Lynn Weaver remembers one Christmas when he was 18 years old in Knoxville, Tennessee.

StoryCorps: Rickey Jackson and Eddie Vernon

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:26

Rickey Jackson, who was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent nearly four decades in prison for it, talks with Eddie Vernon, the man whose false testimony put him there.

Jacksonrsquare_small Rickey Jackson, who was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent nearly four decades in prison for it, talks with Eddie Vernon, the man whose false testimony put him there.

StoryCorps Griot: Dion Diamond

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:25

Dion Diamond talks about the risks he took as a young civil rights activist in the 1950s and 60s.

Diamondsquare_small Dion Diamond talks about the risks he took as a young civil rights activist in the 1950s and 60s.

StoryCorps Griot: Gregory Bess and April Gibson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:10

33-year-old April Gibson talks to her teenage son, Gregory Bess, about how she felt when he was born.

Gibsonasquare_small 33-year-old April Gibson talks to her teenage son, Gregory Bess, about how she felt when he was born.

StoryCorps Griot: Sharon Brangman and Jenna Lester

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:20

Dr. Jenna Lester talks to her mother, Dr. Sharon Brangman, about growing up in a family of black women who have dedicated their lives to medicine.

Brangmansquare_small Dr. Jenna Lester talks to her mother, Dr. Sharon Brangman, about growing up in a family of black women who have dedicated their lives to medicine.

StoryCorps Griot: Tanai Benard and Dezmond Floyd

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:45

10-year-old Dezmond Floyd talks with his mother, Tanai Benard, about the active shooter drills in his 5th grade classroom.

Floydsquare_2_small 10-year-old Dezmond Floyd talks with his mother, Tanai Benard, about the active shooter drills in his 5th grade classroom.

StoryCorps Griot: Dennis Simmonds and Roxanne Simmonds

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:35

Roxanne Simmonds and her husband, Dennis, remember their son, police officer D.J. Simmonds, who died due to injuries he sustained confronting the Boston Marathon bombers.

Simmondssquare_small Roxanne Simmonds and her husband, Dennis, remember their son, police officer D.J. Simmonds, who died due to injuries he sustained confronting the Boston Marathon bombers.

StoryCorps Griot: Myles Spencer-Watson and Charisse Spencer

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:41

Charisse Spencer tells her teenage son Myles what it was like integrating her elementary school in Norfolk, Virginia in the 1960s.

Spencersquare_small Charisse Spencer tells her teenage son Myles what it was like integrating her elementary school in Norfolk, Virginia in the 1960s.

StoryCorps Griot:Max Knauer and Kittie Weston-Knauer

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:17

Kittie Weston-Knauer is the oldest female BMX bicycle racer in the United States. It was her son Max who introduced her to the sport more than 30 years ago.

Knauersquare_small Kittie Weston-Knauer is the oldest female BMX bicycle racer in the United States. It was her son Max who introduced her to the sport more than 30 years ago.

StoryCorps: Alexandra Sanchez and Courtney McKinney

From StoryCorps | 02:00

Courtney McKinney talks to Alexandra Sanchez about finding out they are sisters through anonymous sperm donation.

Mckinneynpr_small Courtney McKinney talks to Alexandra Sanchez about finding out they are sisters through anonymous sperm donation.

StoryCorps: Neoma Farr and Greg Yance

From StoryCorps | 02:34

Greg Yance and Neoma Farr worked alongside each other during the Great Flood of 1993, to gird the town of Niota, Illinois from the rising waters of the Mississippi River. They never knew each other’s names, but sat down to talk with one another 25 years later.

Yancenpr_small Greg Yance and Neoma Farr worked alongside each other during the Great Flood of 1993, to gird the town of Niota, Illinois from the rising waters of the Mississippi River. They never knew each other’s names, but sat down to talk with one another 25 years later.

StoryCorps: Ed Cage and Nicole Paris

From StoryCorps | 02:44

Ed Cage and Nicole Paris are a father-daughter beatboxing duo. At StoryCorps, they talk about how it all began.

Cagenpr_small Ed Cage and Nicole Paris are a father-daughter beatboxing duo. At StoryCorps, they talk about how it all began.

StoryCorps: Brandy Carpenter and De'Marchoe Carpenter

From StoryCorps | 02:39

De’Marchoe Carpenter and his wife Brandy Carpenter talk about the impact of his wrongful conviction on their relationship.

Carpenternpr_small De’Marchoe Carpenter and his wife Brandy Carpenter talk about the impact of his wrongful conviction on their relationship.

StoryCorps: Percy White III and Terry Wright

From StoryCorps | 02:40

Percy White III tells his friend Terry Wright about his family’s time as sharecroppers on a Virginia farm.

Whitepnpr_small Percy White III tells his friend Terry Wright about his family’s time as sharecroppers on a Virginia farm.

StoryCorps: Alfred Wilson and Susan Bro

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:32

In 2017, Heather Heyer was killed while protesting against a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. Her supervisor from the law office she worked in, Alfred Wilson, sat down with her mother, Susan Bro, to remember her.

Brosquare_small

Alfred Wilson (AW) and Susan Bro (SB)

AW: Heather was very honest with me and told me, ’I don’t type. I’ve never worked in an office. All I’ve done all my life is bartend or waitress.’

SB: So you took a chance.

AW: Yeah. She could communicate with anyone. And, you know, I’m a black male and I might walk out to meet a client and Heather would notice that sometimes they didn’t shake my hand, and that would just infuriate her. And I’m like, ’Where does she get this from?’ Because she grew up in this little small place that’s not that diverse.

SB: She comes from a long line of stubborn people — stubborn and opinionated and not afraid to say so.

That day of the rally, what time did I call you from the hospital?

AW: About two o’clock. I remember my wife told me, ’Oh my God, Alfred. Do you see what happened on the TV?’ And she didn’t know that I was on the phone talking to you. I remember thinking, ’She’s going to tell me that Heather’s hurt.’ But you didn’t tell me that. And then everything was so quiet like somebody had shut the volume control off on the world.

SB: For me, losing my daughter was like, you’ll have a lot of tears one time then you’ll go numb for awhile. And, uh, I’m glad you’re finally able to let some of yours out because you worried me there for awhile.

AW: Yeah. In May, I was going to have two kids graduating at the same time, and all I could think was I wanted her to be there.

SB: Yeah.

AW: But one of the plus sides was when you showed up to the graduation party.

SB: Your family was very welcoming but I kept thinking, ’Heather’s the one that should be here.’

AW: Yeah.

SB: For me, grief is like standing in the shallows of the ocean, knee-deep in the water. Every so often a wave will wash over. And so I allow myself to cry and be really sad while that wave is there. But I know that it will go away, and that’s what gets me through.

StoryCorps: Keith Sims and Melvin Pender

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:34

During the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, many black athletes were called to protest racial inequality. Not all were able to do so. That was the case for Mel Pender, a 31-year-old track star in the U.S. Army, who was pulled from the jungles of Vietnam to compete.

Pendersquare_small During the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, many black athletes were called to protest racial inequality. Not all were able to do so. That was the case for Mel Pender, a 31-year-old track star in the U.S. Army, who was pulled from the jungles of Vietnam to compete.

StoryCorps: Ana Smith-Daley, Roy Daley and Lucy Figueroa

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:27

50 years after arriving in the United States from Honduras, Roy Daley sat down with his daughter Lucy and wife Ana to reminisce about his first Thanksgiving dinner.

Daleynpr_small 50 years after arriving in the United States from Honduras, Roy Daley sat down with his daughter Lucy and wife Ana to reminisce about his first Thanksgiving dinner.

StoryCorps Griot: Jeanne Satterfield

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 01:47

Old friends Jeanne Satterfield and Barbara Parham talk about how their unexpected reunion in a shelter led them closer to home.

Storycorps_logov1_cmyk_small Old friends Jeanne Satterfield and Barbara Parham talk about how their unexpected reunion in a shelter led them closer to home.

StoryCorps Griot: Carol Barner--Seay, Shirley Reese , Diane Bowens, and Verna Hollis

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 06:02

In 1963, more than a dozen African American girls, including Carol Barner-Seay , Shirley Reese, Diane Bowens, and Verna Hollis, were arrested for protesting segregation in Americus, Georgia. At StoryCorps, they remember being held in a small makeshift jail for nearly two months.

Green-reesesquare_small In 1963, more than a dozen African American girls, including Carol Barner-Seay , Shirley Reese, Diane Bowens, and Verna Hollis, were arrested for protesting segregation in Americus, Georgia. At StoryCorps, they remember being held in a small makeshift jail for nearly two months.

StoryCorps Griot: Miriam Pratt and Jean Soliz

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:37

In 1969, Civil Rights leader Edwin Pratt was assassinated in his own home with his wife and daughter, Miriam, present. Miriam Pratt and her godmother Jean Soliz came to StoryCorps to remember the aftermath.

Pratt_square_final_small In 1969, Civil Rights leader Edwin Pratt was assassinated in his own home with his wife and daughter, Miriam, present. Miriam Pratt and her godmother Jean Soliz came to StoryCorps to remember the aftermath.

StoryCorps: Denise Baken, Richard Yingling, and Christian Yingling

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:19

Denise Baken tells her children about her family's legacy of military service—and the battles faced along the way.

Baken_square_small Denise Baken tells her children about her family's legacy of military service—and the battles faced along the way.

StoryCorps: Karama Neal and Judge Olly Neal

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:32

Judge Olly Neal tells his daughter how discovering African American author Frank Yerby's books in his school library turned him around academically.

Neal_square_small Judge Olly Neal tells his daughter how discovering African American author Frank Yerby's books in his school library turned him around academically.

StoryCorps: Romario Vassell and Guy Bryant

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:55

Guy Bryant talks to his foster son, Romario Vassell, about what it means to be a foster parent to more than 50 kids.

Bryant_square_small Guy Bryant talks to his foster son, Romario Vassell, about what it means to be a foster parent to more than 50 kids.

StoryCorps: Natalie Guice Adams and Eli Brown

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:16

Former classmates Natalie Guice Adams and Eli Brown reflect for the first time on life after court-ordered desegregation.

Brown_square_small Former classmates Natalie Guice Adams and Eli Brown reflect for the first time on life after court-ordered desegregation.

StoryCorps: Lebronze and Arguster Davis

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:01

Lebronze and Arguster Davis grew up on their family’s farm in Wetumpka, Alabama. As two of 17 siblings, they had little time for anything outside of school and work.

Davis_square_small Lebronze and Arguster Davis grew up on their family’s farm in Wetumpka, Alabama. As two of 17 siblings, they had little time for anything outside of school and work.

StoryCorps: Patsy Rembert and Winfred Rembert

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:09

73-year-old Winfred Rembert is one of the only people ever known to have survived a lynching. At StoryCorps, he sat down with his wife, Patsy, to remember what he lived through.

Rembert_square_small 73-year-old Winfred Rembert is one of the only people ever known to have survived a lynching. At StoryCorps, he sat down with his wife, Patsy, to remember what he lived through.

StoryCorps Griot: Drew Lanham and John Lane

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:02

Drew Lanham tells his friend John Lane about his lifelong passion for birds and nature.

Lanham_square_small Drew Lanham tells his friend John Lane about his lifelong passion for birds and nature.

StoryCorps Griot: John Lewis and Valerie Jackson

From StoryCorps | 02:59

John Lewis remembers how Dr. King’s words inspired him to join the Civil Rights Movement.

Lewissquare_small John Lewis remembers how Dr. King’s words inspired him to join the Civil Rights Movement.

StoryCorps Griot: Jerry Morrison and Joey Jefferson

From StoryCorps | 02:34

NASA Engineer Joey Jefferson talks with his six-year-old nephew, Jerry Morrison, about their shared passion for space.

Morrison_sq_small NASA Engineer Joey Jefferson talks with his six-year-old nephew, Jerry Morrison, about their shared passion for space.

StoryCorps Griot: Janis Porter and Olivia Hooker

From StoryCorps | 02:05

Dr. Olivia Hooker, who lived to be 103, sat down with her goddaughter Janis Porter to discuss her groundbreaking life as the first African American woman to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Hooker_square_small Dr. Olivia Hooker, who lived to be 103, sat down with her goddaughter Janis Porter to discuss her groundbreaking life as the first African American woman to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard.

StoryCorps Griot: Sydney Reed and Rep. James Clyburn

From StoryCorps | 03:04

Rep. James Clyburn speaks with his granddaughter, Sydney Reed, about the lessons he’s learned from success and failure.

Clyburn_square_small Rep. James Clyburn speaks with his granddaughter, Sydney Reed, about the lessons he’s learned from success and failure.

StoryCorps: Sam Dow and Josh Belser

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:05

Longtime friends Josh Belser and Sam Dow, who are healthcare workers in different states, have a conversation to check in with each other during the coronavirus pandemic.

Dowfullsquare_v01_small Longtime friends Josh Belser and Sam Dow, who are healthcare workers in different states, have a conversation to check in with each other during the coronavirus pandemic.

StoryCorps Griot: Evette Jourdain and Craig Boddie

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:35

Palm Beach, Florida Mail Carriers Evette Jourdain and Craig Boddie talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their daily lives--at work, and at home.

Jourdainsquarev02_small Palm Beach, Florida Mail Carriers Evette Jourdain and Craig Boddie talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their daily lives--at work, and at home.

StoryCorps Griot: Albert Sykes and Aidan Sykes

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:39

Albert Sykes speaks with his nine-year-old son, Aidan, about black fatherhood, and his hopes for the future.

Sykessquare_small Albert Sykes speaks with his nine-year-old son, Aidan, about black fatherhood, and his hopes for the future.

StoryCorps Griot: Albert Sykes and Aidan Sykes (UPDATE)

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:41

Albert Sykes returns to StoryCorps with his son Aidan--now 14-- to talk about how Aidan is feeling as a young Black man in 2020.

Sykesupdatesquare_small Albert Sykes returns to StoryCorps with his son Aidan--now 14-- to talk about how Aidan is feeling as a young Black man in 2020.

StoryCorps: Hadiyah-Nicole Green-Argieard and Tenika Floyd

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:48

Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green speaks with her cousin Tenika Floyd about being raised by her Auntie and Uncle, and how their separate battles with cancer inspired her to spend her life fighting the disease.

Green-argieardsquare_small Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green speaks with her cousin Tenika Floyd about being raised by her Auntie and Uncle, and how their separate battles with cancer inspired her to spend her life fighting the disease.

StoryCorps: Nia Cosby and Chalana McFarland

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:20

After being incarcerated for 15 years, Chalana McFarland is reunited with her daughter following a federal memorandum that called for releasing nonviolent inmates at risk for COVID-19.

Mcfarlandsquare_small After being incarcerated for 15 years, Chalana McFarland is reunited with her daughter following a federal memorandum that called for releasing nonviolent inmates at risk for COVID-19.

StoryCorps Griot: Rohulamin Quander and Alicia Argrett

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:31

An African American family that traces its roots back to Nancy Carter Quander, a woman who was enslaved by George and Martha Washington, talks about keeping their history alive through annual family reunions.

Quandernew_square_small An African American family that traces its roots back to Nancy Carter Quander, a woman who was enslaved by George and Martha Washington, talks about keeping their history alive through annual family reunions.

StoryCorps Griot: Shirley Darkeh and Ayim Darkeh

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:04

Dr. Ayim Darkeh speaks with his mother, Shirley, about his experiences being one of the few Black students at his predominantly white elementary school, and the hopes he has for his children

Darkeh_square_small Dr. Ayim Darkeh speaks with his mother, Shirley, about his experiences being one of the few Black students at his predominantly white elementary school, and the hopes he has for his children

StoryCorps: Erin Haggerty and George Barlow

From StoryCorps | 03:10

Erin Haggerty tells her father George about childhood memories she never shared with him before. They discuss the differences in racism between generations and how George unknowingly helped Erin cope.

Haggertysquare_small Erin Haggerty tells her father George about childhood memories she never shared with him before. They discuss the differences in racism between generations and how George unknowingly helped Erin cope.

StoryCorps: Jamie Olivieri and Yennie Neal-Achigbu

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:27

Best friends Jamie Olivieri and Yennie Neal-Achigbu talk about being beside each other through the highs and lows of life, and how they’ve learned to find reasons to celebrate even in the hard times.

Olivierisquare_small Best friends Jamie Olivieri and Yennie Neal-Achigbu talk about being beside each other through the highs and lows of life, and how they’ve learned to find reasons to celebrate even in the hard times.

StoryCorps Military Voices Initiative: Joseph Patton

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:44

81-year-old Navy veteran Joseph Patton remembers his service and the discrimination he faced as a gay man in the 1950s.

Pattonsquare_small 81-year-old Navy veteran Joseph Patton remembers his service and the discrimination he faced as a gay man in the 1950s.

StoryCorps Griot: Clara Jean Ester

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:55

72-year-old Clara Jean Ester remembers bearing witness to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech in 1968, and rushing to his side the next day when he was assassinated.

Estersquare_small 72-year-old Clara Jean Ester remembers bearing witness to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech in 1968, and rushing to his side the next day when he was assassinated.

StoryCorps Griot: Jada Salter and William Salter

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:47

84-year-old musician William Salter tells his granddaughter, Jada, how he first found his sound, and what their relationship means to him.

Saltersquare_small 84-year-old musician William Salter tells his granddaughter, Jada, how he first found his sound, and what their relationship means to him.

StoryCorps American Pathways and Griot: Tony Hicks and Azim Khamisa

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:17

In 1995, 14-year-old Tony Hicks shot and killed 20-year old Tariq Khamisa in a gang-related robbery. While Tariq’s father, Azim, was grieving his son, he also came to a realization: that “there were victims on both ends of the gun.” 25 years later, he and Tony sat down to remember what happened next.

Hickssquare_small In 1995, 14-year-old Tony Hicks shot and killed 20-year old Tariq Khamisa in a gang-related robbery. While Tariq’s father, Azim, was grieving his son, he also came to a realization: that “there were victims on both ends of the gun.” 25 years later, he and Tony sat down to remember what happened next.

StoryCorps American Pathways and Griot: Tasreen Khamisa and Tony Hicks

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:33

In 1995, 14-year-old Tony Hicks shot and killed 20-year old Tariq Khamisa in a gang-related robbery. 20 years later, Tariq's older sister, Tasreen, remembers how she found forgiveness after her brother's murder.

Khamisasquare_small In 1995, 14-year-old Tony Hicks shot and killed 20-year old Tariq Khamisa in a gang-related robbery. 20 years later, Tariq's older sister, Tasreen, remembers how she found forgiveness after her brother's murder.

StoryCorps Griot: Mary Mills and Joyce Carter Mills

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:55

Mary Mills talks with her mother, Joyce Carter Mills, about growing up in the 1960s and why all the neighborhood kids wanted to be at their house.

Millssquare_small Mary Mills talks with her mother, Joyce Carter Mills, about growing up in the 1960s and why all the neighborhood kids wanted to be at their house.

StoryCorps American Pathways and Griot: Rich Jean, Abigail Jean, and Hasina Islam

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:12

Abigail Jean and her father, Rich Jean, thank their local librarian, Hasina Islam, for encouraging Abigail’s love of reading.

Islamsquare_small Abigail Jean and her father, Rich Jean, thank their local librarian, Hasina Islam, for encouraging Abigail’s love of reading.

StoryCorps Griot: Jade Rone and Stacia Parker

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:23

Jade Rone talks to her foster mother, Stacia Parker, about the early days of their relationship and the journey that brought them closer together.

Ronesquare_small Jade Rone talks to her foster mother, Stacia Parker, about the early days of their relationship and the journey that brought them closer together.

StoryCorps Griot and American Pathways: Beau McCall and Julaina Glass

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:34

Julaina Glass and Beau McCall met as neighbors in a Harlem, NY brownstone. They came to StoryCorps nearly 35 years later to remember -- and laugh about -- how they moved from neighbors to beloved friends.

Glasssquare_small Julaina Glass and Beau McCall met as neighbors in a Harlem, NY brownstone. They came to StoryCorps nearly 35 years later to remember -- and laugh about -- how they moved from neighbors to beloved friends.

StoryCorps Griot: Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis and Ernest Jarvis

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:55

In the 1940s, Dr. Charles Drew was a surgeon and blood scientist, and today he is known as the “Father of Blood Banks.” His daughter, Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis, came to StoryCorps with her son, Ernest Jarvis, to remember him and his work.

Jarvissquare_small In the 1940s, Dr. Charles Drew was a surgeon and blood scientist, and today he is known as the “Father of Blood Banks.” His daughter, Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis, came to StoryCorps with her son, Ernest Jarvis, to remember him and his work.

StoryCorps Griot and Military Voices Initiative: Alvy Powell and Yvonne Powell

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:24

Master Sgt. Alvy Powell Jr. talks with his sister, Yvonne Powell, about being the oldest enlisted soldier in the Army, and the role Yvonne played in his decorated career in music.

Powellsquare_small Master Sgt. Alvy Powell Jr. talks with his sister, Yvonne Powell, about being the oldest enlisted soldier in the Army, and the role Yvonne played in his decorated career in music.

StoryCorps Griot: Sabrina Beavers and Shantay Davies-Balch

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:25

Sabrina Beavers talks to her friend and colleague, Shantay Davies- Balch about Black maternal health and the premature births of their children.

Beaverssquare_small Sabrina Beavers talks to her friend and colleague, Shantay Davies- Balch about Black maternal health and the premature births of their children.

StoryCorps Griot: Jo Vill and Chad Vill

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:00

Chad Vill talks to his dad, Jo Vill, about following in his footsteps as a DJ, and starting a dance party on their block in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Villsquare_small Chad Vill talks to his dad, Jo Vill, about following in his footsteps as a DJ, and starting a dance party on their block in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

StoryCorps Griot: Malinda Edwards and Mildred Betts

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:17

Malinda Edwards talks to her sister Mildred Betts about the murder of her father, Willie Edwards Jr. at the hands of the Ku Klux Klan in 1957.

Edwardssquare_small Malinda Edwards talks to her sister Mildred Betts about the murder of her father, Willie Edwards Jr. at the hands of the Ku Klux Klan in 1957.

StoryCorps Griot: Rev. Farrell Duncombe and Howard Robinson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:15

Rev. Farrell Duncombe talks about growing up in Montgomery, AL, and the role models who shaped him, including his Sunday school teacher, Rosa Parks.

Duncombesquare_small Rev. Farrell Duncombe talks about growing up in Montgomery, AL, and the role models who shaped him, including his Sunday school teacher, Rosa Parks.

StoryCorps Griot: Libby Stroik

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:29

Libby Stroik talks about finding a kindred spirit in her grandfather, Harry Golomski, and about her treasured memories of their quiet mornings in rural Wisconsin.

Stroiksquare_small Libby Stroik talks about finding a kindred spirit in her grandfather, Harry Golomski, and about her treasured memories of their quiet mornings in rural Wisconsin.

StoryCorps: Jason Thomas and Jason Christian Thomas

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:26

For the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Former Marine Sergeant Jason Thomas opens up to his youngest son, Jason Christian Thomas, about the search and rescue efforts he did at Ground Zero.

Thomassquare_small For the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Former Marine Sergeant Jason Thomas opens up to his youngest son, Jason Christian Thomas, about the search and rescue efforts he did at Ground Zero.

StoryCorps Griot: Marc Lawson and Karen Lawson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:42

Anderson and Karen Lawson remember their father, engineer, Gerald Lawson and how his pioneering spirit influenced their childhood in 1970’s Silicon Valley.

Lawsonsquare_small Anderson and Karen Lawson remember their father, engineer, Gerald Lawson and how his pioneering spirit influenced their childhood in 1970’s Silicon Valley.

StoryCorps Griot: Myeshia Oates and Derek Bart

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:17

Nearly 30 years after surviving a house fire as a kid, Myeshia Oates reunites with the Los Angeles County firefighter who saved her life, Derek Bart.

Bartsquare_small Nearly 30 years after surviving a house fire as a kid, Myeshia Oates reunites with the Los Angeles County firefighter who saved her life, Derek Bart.

StoryCorps Griot: Mary Clark and Ron Gibson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:48

Mary Clark came to StoryCorps with her friend, Ron Gibson, to talk about the complicated history of their relationship, and where they are now.

Clarksquare_small Mary Clark came to StoryCorps with her friend, Ron Gibson, to talk about the complicated history of their relationship, and where they are now.

StoryCorps Military Voices Initiative: La'Shanda Holmes and Jeanine Menze

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:25

Lieutenant Commander La’Shanda Holmes talks to her mentor, Commander Jeanine Menze, about being the first two Black female pilots in the United States Coast Guard.

Menzesquare_small Lieutenant Commander La’Shanda Holmes talks to her mentor, Commander Jeanine Menze, about being the first two Black female pilots in the United States Coast Guard.

StoryCorps MVI: Saleemah Muhammad and Abdul-Rasheed Muhammad

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:34

Lieutenant Colonel Abdul-Rasheed Muhammad talks to his wife, Saleemah Muhammad, about becoming the first Muslim chaplain in the U.S. Armed Forces, and the challenges of his service.

Muhammadsquare_small Lieutenant Colonel Abdul-Rasheed Muhammad talks to his wife, Saleemah Muhammad, about becoming the first Muslim chaplain in the U.S. Armed Forces, and the challenges of his service.

StoryCorps Griot: Alexander Landau and Nina Askew

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:51

Alexander Landau spoke with his friend, Nina Askew, about the support they’ve given each other after both experienced violent arrests from Colorado Police.

Landausqaure_small Alexander Landau spoke with his friend, Nina Askew, about the support they’ve given each other after both experienced violent arrests from Colorado Police.

StoryCorps: Leslye Huff and Mary Ostendorf

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:30

After facing a difficult coming out, one couple changed a mother’s heart

Huffsquare_small After facing a difficult coming out, one couple changed a mother’s heart

StoryCorps Griot: Rowan Allen and Dorothy Salmon-Lindsay

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 01:59

Dorothy Salmon-Lindsay speaks with Rowan Allen, the EMT who saved her son’s life and inspired her to become a nurse.

Lindsaysquare_small Dorothy Salmon-Lindsay speaks with Rowan Allen, the EMT who saved her son’s life and inspired her to become a nurse.

StoryCorps Griot: Necothia Bowens-Robinson and Temica Hunt

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:54

Temica Hunt came to StoryCorps with her mother, Neocothia Bowens-Robinson, to talk about their family’s multi-generation love of roller skating.

Bowenssquare_small Temica Hunt came to StoryCorps with her mother, Neocothia Bowens-Robinson, to talk about their family’s multi-generation love of roller skating.

StoryCorps Griot: Raynita Snipes Johnson and Gene Robinson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:23

Raynita Snipes Johnson remembers her great-uncle, US Army veteran Maceo Snipes, a Black man lynched for voting in 1946.

Johnsonsquare_small Raynita Snipes Johnson remembers her great-uncle, US Army veteran Maceo Snipes, a Black man lynched for voting in 1946.

StoryCorps Griot: Ghuan Featherstone and Jordan Humphreys

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:43

Ghuan Featherstone came to StoryCorps with his mentee Jordan Humphreys to talk about their shared love of horses and horseback riding.

Featherstonesquare_small Ghuan Featherstone came to StoryCorps with his mentee Jordan Humphreys to talk about their shared love of horses and horseback riding.

StoryCorps Griot: Mary Othella Burnette and Debora Hamilton Palmer

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:37

Mary Othella Burnette tells her daughter, Debora Hamilton Palmer, about “Granny Hayden,” a second-generation midwife in Black Appalachia.

Burnettesquare_small Mary Othella Burnette tells her daughter, Debora Hamilton Palmer, about “Granny Hayden,” a second-generation midwife in Black Appalachia.

StoryCorps Griot: Monica Jordan and LaTonya Walker

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:51

Cousins Monica Jordan and LaTonya Walker reflect on their strict upbringing and remember one afternoon when they decided to break the rules.

Jordansquare_small Cousins Monica Jordan and LaTonya Walker reflect on their strict upbringing and remember one afternoon when they decided to break the rules.

StoryCorps Griot: Harold Lucas, Jr., D'Lorah Butts-Lucas, and Darryll Lucas

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:07

Harold Lucas, Jr. sits down with his daughter, D’Lorah Butts-Lucas, to remember seeing Jackie Robinson train to become the first Black player in Major League baseball.

Lucassquare_small Harold Lucas, Jr. sits down with his daughter, D’Lorah Butts-Lucas, to remember seeing Jackie Robinson train to become the first Black player in Major League baseball.

StoryCorps Griot: Rob Maiden and Daniel Jacob

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:43

Rob Maiden tells his friend and fellow Mavs ManiAACs performer, Daniel Jacob, about what led him to join their hip--hop dance group of self--proclaimed “beefy” men.

Maidensquare_small Rob Maiden tells his friend and fellow Mavs ManiAACs performer, Daniel Jacob, about what led him to join their hip--hop dance group of self--proclaimed “beefy” men.

StoryCorps Griot: Christina Rogers and Vester Acoff

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:20

Christina Rogers and Vester Acoff sat down to remember the death of their sister, Latasha Harlins, whose killing over 30 years ago was one of the catalysts for the 1992 Los Angeles Riots.

Rogerssquare_small Christina Rogers and Vester Acoff sat down to remember the death of their sister, Latasha Harlins, whose killing over 30 years ago was one of the catalysts for the 1992 Los Angeles Riots.

StoryCorps Griot: Betty Thompson

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:47

Ms. Betty Thompson talks about her work at the last remaining abortion clinic in Mississippi, and what led her there.

Thompsonsquare_small Ms. Betty Thompson talks about her work at the last remaining abortion clinic in Mississippi, and what led her there.

StoryCorps Griot: Lana Cooper-Jones and Marla Cooper

From StoryCorps | 02:45

Lana Cooper-Jones and Marla Cooper sit down at StoryCorps to remember their dad and his commitment to celebrating Juneteenth.

Coopersquare_small Lana Cooper-Jones and Marla Cooper sit down at StoryCorps to remember their dad and his commitment to celebrating Juneteenth.

StoryCorps Griot: Fred Gilliam and Jerry Harris

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:20

Fred Gilliam and Jerry Harris remember their mentor, Dr. Vivien Thomas, a surgical researcher who developed groundbreaking medical techniques.

Gilliamsquare_small Fred Gilliam and Jerry Harris remember their mentor, Dr. Vivien Thomas, a surgical researcher who developed groundbreaking medical techniques.

StoryCorps Griot: Lisa Woolfork and Kendall King-Sellars

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:23

Charlottesville resident, Lisa Woolfork, was in the crowd of counter-protesters at the “Unite the Right” rally in 2017. Five years later, she talked with Kendall King-Sellars, another local who was also there that day.

Woolforksquare_small Charlottesville resident, Lisa Woolfork, was in the crowd of counter-protesters at the “Unite the Right” rally in 2017. Five years later, she talked with Kendall King-Sellars, another local who was also there that day.

StoryCorps: Nelva Williamson and Timothy Harris

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:53

Nelva Williamson came to StoryCorps with her son Timothy J. Harris to reflect on a life in the classroom and her commitment to shedding light on history.

Williamsonsquare_small Nelva Williamson came to StoryCorps with her son Timothy J. Harris to reflect on a life in the classroom and her commitment to shedding light on history.

StoryCorps Griot: Atiba Mbiwan, Didi Ndando, and Egbe Monjimbo

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:47

Sisters Didi Ndando and Egbe Monjimbo talk with Atiba Mbiwan, who honored the memory of their late brother Acha by taking on the family’s last name.

Mbiwansquare_small Sisters Didi Ndando and Egbe Monjimbo talk with Atiba Mbiwan, who honored the memory of their late brother Acha by taking on the family’s last name.

StoryCorps Griot: Martha High and Sandra Bears

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:40

Sandra Bears and Martha High remember singing together as The Jewels, before hitting the road with James Brown.

Highsquare_small Sandra Bears and Martha High remember singing together as The Jewels, before hitting the road with James Brown.

StoryCorps Griot: Monica Mickle and Rev. Harry Blake

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:44

Rev. Harry Blake came to StoryCorps to speak with his daughter Monica Mickle about how his experiences growing up the son of a sharecropper in Louisiana inspired his long life working for Civil Rights.

Blakesquare_small Rev. Harry Blake came to StoryCorps to speak with his daughter Monica Mickle about how his experiences growing up the son of a sharecropper in Louisiana inspired his long life working for Civil Rights.

StoryCorps Griot: JoAn Peters and Tom Peters

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:22

Tom and JoAn Peters came to StoryCorps to talk about the ups and downs of their relationship, and a difficult decision they had to make.

Peterssquare_small Tom and JoAn Peters came to StoryCorps to talk about the ups and downs of their relationship, and a difficult decision they had to make.

StoryCorps Griot: Sydia Bell and Danny Bell

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:00

Danny Bell tells his daughter Sydia about trying to teach her mother to drive.

Bellsquare_small Danny Bell tells his daughter Sydia about trying to teach her mother to drive.

StoryCorps Griot: Eunice Wiley

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:20

Eunice Wiley shares how becoming one of the only Black teachers at a predominantly white Florida elementary school helped define her as a teacher.

Wileysquare_small Eunice Wiley shares how becoming one of the only Black teachers at a predominantly white Florida elementary school helped define her as a teacher.

StoryCorps Griot: Shiekh Nazim Abdul Karriem

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:03

Sheikh Nazim Abdul Karriem was drafted at the age of 18 into World War II. He came to StoryCorps at 96 to talk about what he found when he came home from war.

Karriemsquare_small Sheikh Nazim Abdul Karriem was drafted at the age of 18 into World War II. He came to StoryCorps at 96 to talk about what he found when he came home from war.

StoryCorps: Zach Stephney and Melissa Brooks

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:07

Zack Stephney remembers saving Melissa Brooks from the unprecedented 2009 Atlanta flash flood.

Stephneysquare_small Zack Stephney remembers saving Melissa Brooks from the unprecedented 2009 Atlanta flash flood.

StoryCorps: Shirley Duhart and Dale Strasser

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 03:02

Polio survivor Shirley Duhart tells her longtime friend and doctor, Dale Strasser, about why wearing stylish shoes has been so empowering.

Duhartsquare_small Polio survivor Shirley Duhart tells her longtime friend and doctor, Dale Strasser, about why wearing stylish shoes has been so empowering.

StoryCorps: Mason Best and Roseann Smith

From StoryCorps | Part of the StoryCorps series | 02:36

Mason Best, age 12, came to StoryCorps with his mother Roseann Smith to reflect on their relationship and share some of his philosophies on life.

Bestsquare_small Mason Best, age 12, came to StoryCorps with his mother Roseann Smith to reflect on their relationship and share some of his philosophies on life.