Making Your Own Worlds
By Tasha Wilson
February is here, and as usual, Modesto is ready to celebrate! Each year, Black History Month honors the rich cultural contributions and legacies of African Americans in our community. Leading this year’s celebration is Angela Drew. Drew has already made history as Modesto’s very first African American Poet Laureate. Personally, I had the great honor of assisting her with this project, and she was such a beautifully kind spirit to be around during every interview session with each participant. Angela is bringing an incredible, groundbreaking visual and audio experience to Modesto, and I am so proud to be a part of it! Based on a quote by the legendary science fiction writer Octavia E. Butler, who stated, during an interview with Charlie Rose, “You’ve got to make your own worlds. You’ve got to write yourself in. Whether you were a part of the greater society or not, you’ve got to write yourself in,” she said. Angela’s exhibit is based on just that, “Writing Ourselves In!” This exhibit is a multimedia art installation where “Our voices will be honored, our faces will be seen, and our stories will fill in the spaces,” Angela stated. Over the past few months, through social media and word of mouth, Angela reached out to request local stories from our African American community, and many people responded to her call to action! The exhibition, taking place at the McHenry Museum during February and into March, is not just a simple display but a profound initiative showcasing many beautiful stories of our heritage and history. This exhibit is running longer than just February, and that is by design. Black History does not end in February! Black history never stops, and this exhibition ensures that no one in our great city of Modesto will miss the chance to see, share, and view the legacy and personal stories as told by multiple individuals living here today.
Awarded the Tupo Pamoja Grant, Angela Drew chose to document and amplify the voices of Black residents here in Modesto. Her interviews spanned generations, and she captured the essence of what it means to live and thrive in our vibrant city from the past to the present. Angela’s conversations were detailed, intimate, and informative. She dove deep into a variety of topics, covering accomplishments, education, family bonds, and the professional journeys of each of her participants.
Among those sharing their stories for the exhibit are notable community leaders. There will be features on Vice Mayor Jeremiah Williams, in which he discusses his journey in public service and the importance of positive representation. Ms. Ruby Kennedy, a retired Memorial Hospital nurse, gave a very detailed interview. It was extremely exciting to get information from Mrs. Kennedy, who just celebrated her 90th birthday and means so much to all of us! Sterling Fountain emphasized the need for our continued unity and progress. Roger and Margie Lee were also interviewed. Mr. Lee spoke about his years in law enforcement and becoming the first Black policeman and detective here. But more than anything, he could not stop speaking about how much he loves his wife and how much he appreciates her, and all the support she gave him while she continued her service to this community for over 50 years.
This exhibit extends beyond the above-mentioned great leaders and features a number of other participants, including Glenn Stovall, the retired, former Director of The Rise Up Center at Modesto Junior College, who is now the Minister of Music at Life Connection Church. Scott Hallman, Past Master, 33rd degree, of Silver Square Lodge, #66, shared his family history and his membership in the Masonic Lodge. Each of their stories reflects resilience, ambition, and the deep connections that bind our community together.
Visitors to the “Writing Ourselves In” exhibit at the McHenry Museum can expect a variety of sensory experiences. Accompanying each story are videos and photographs that bring these individuals’ journeys to life, creating a rich and full background of Modesto’s Black heritage. The exhibit is designed to ensure that attendees leave with a greater understanding of the sacrifices and triumphs made here over the years.
In addition to Angela Drew’s exhibit, Audrey Spearman is preparing for yet another sensational event, featuring local talent in “Our Black History! Striving for Excellence!” at the Senior Center, located at 211 Boden Street, Modesto, California 95350. Known for her incredible shows, Audrey consistently delivers high-quality performances. John Irvin, co-founder of Sankofa Theatre, will begin running their most recent production, Purley Victorious, at The Gallo Theater this month as well.
This is my personal invitation to you. I would love to see you at the “Writing Ourselves In” exhibit and each of the accompanying events. These events are for everyone in Modesto! When attending these events, we all partake in the rich history that has shaped our city. This is an opportunity and an invitation to connect, understand diverse experiences, and pave the way for a more inclusive future.
As we begin to honor our Unsung Heroes here in Modesto, let us embrace the spirit of Black History Month throughout February by supporting local artists, engaging in meaningful dialogue, and, most importantly, sharing the beautiful legacies that make Modesto such a unique city. Please join us in this celebration of history and culture – together, we can ensure that every story is heard and cherished. Additionally, we must remember that Black History is happening every day, not just in February. So, celebrate yourself, celebrate your loved ones, and all that is important to you during the entire year! And to Angela Drew, congratulations, what you’ve done at The McHenry Museum is historically spectacular!
