Abstract

Ms. Adwoa Beidleman-Aggrey reflects on her life, training, and involvement as a member and President of the Washington Section, National Council of Negro Women. She shares candid conversations and her insights concerning issues affecting some of the needs faced by women and their families.

Abstract

In this interview, Kyle-Coles discusses her move to Washington D.C.; the harassment and threat of violence directed at her family as one of the first Black households in their neighborhood; her experiences in the D.C. public schools before and after legal desegregation; working in D.C.; and other topics related to her family’s experiences in D.C. and in Alabama.

Abstract President of both the Fairlawn Citizen Association and the D.C. Federation of Civic Associations, Graylin Presbury, describes the Covid19 pandemic and its disproportionate impact on Black residents of low-income and elders in particular. He recounts various adventures as a volunteer for the Student Conservation Association and the majestic wild spaces he witnessed. He also regales harrowing experiences in which both he and his Father (on separate occasions) were arrested due to racial...

Abstract In this oral history interview, Mr. Joseph Benson, Sr. discusses his life and experiences moving from Ridgeway/Longwood, South Carolina, to Washington, D.C. Mr. Benson begins the interview with a discussion of his early life in South Carolina. He recalls the physical conditions of his upbringing, discusses his early educational experiences, and shares memories about his family life. He also talks about segregation and race relations in the South. Mr. Benson then discusses his move to...

Abstract Luke Stewart talks about being born in the Mississippi Gulf Coast and moving to Washington, D.C. in pursuit of music and historical connections to the legacy of radical music and culture in the capital. His approach to performance is that of recognizing musical legacies of the cities, where he is based, and using radical music and culture as tools of resistance and call for social justice. He meets a community of improvising musicians and elders while working at WPFW. Luke continues to meet...

Scope and Contents

This collection comprises author John Muller’s research notes, printed materials, and book drafts for his 2012 publication Frederick Douglass in Washington, DC: The Lion of Anacostia.

Abstract Ms. Nettie Hailes reflects on her life, the influences of Dr. Dorothy I. Height, President Emerita of National Council of Negro Women, and the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, Founder of National Council of Negro Women. She acknowledges the strong support that she received during her term in office and eagerly supports the leadership of youth and those who would follow. She is optimistic about the future and the collective strength of the section and organization. She appeals for youth to step...