Presenters:
Shellae Versey
The Gullah Geechee know survival. Now is the time to know their stories. This presentation presents an overview of Black/African American-centered cultural and heritage preservation models, exploring how best practices might inform a collaborative model of Gullah Geechee cultural preservation – led by the culture, stewarded by the culture, and sustained by the culture. Using examples from previous projects, I examine how oral histories, participatory community mapping, placemaking efforts, and digital archives can support the preservation and celebration of the Gullah Geechee culture. In addition, I will explore how the establishment of collaborative, community-led efforts can promote empowerment and cohesiveness in the wake of competing pressures that threaten the survival of the Gullah Geechee, such as gentrification, appropriation, and displacement.
Length: 30 minutes