Death, Tech, & Afrofuturism: Juneteenth Harrisburg
Death, Tech, & Afrofuturism: Juneteenth Harrisburg
Join us for a compelling journey through time as Rachael Keri Williams, founder and Executive Director of SOAL: Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy, delivers an inspiring talk titled “Death, Tech, & Afrofuturism” in this video from the YPOC 2024 Juneteenth Harrisburg Summit, held on June 18th at UMPC Tower of Harrisburg University. In this enlightening session, Rachael explores the rich, often overlooked history of African Americans in Pennsylvania, with a particular focus on the Civil War era and the intricate workings of the Underground Railroad. She delves into the stories of Black communities who played pivotal roles in these historic events, shedding light on their resilience, bravery, and contributions to the fight for freedom.
In a world where the intricate fabric of history often overlooks the significant contributions of marginalized groups, it is imperative to revisit and shed light on these overlooked narratives. This speech delves into the profound involvement of African Americans in the Civil War, particularly in Pennsylvania, and the intricate workings of the Underground Railroad, emphasizing the need to reclaim and retell these stories through modern technology and community engagement.
Civil War History–Death, Tech, & Afrofuturism
Confederate Invasion and Its Impact
Today, we stand 161 years from the Confederate invasion of South Central Pennsylvania during the American Civil War. This historical moment, when the Confederate Army pursued Union troops retreating from Winchester, Virginia, had far-reaching implications. Tens of thousands of enslaved individuals, seizing the opportunity for freedom, left plantations and struck North on their own, or followed behind the Union Army. Some of these “Contraband of War” found refuge in Northern states, establishing communities that became the foundation of Black society in Harrisburg and beyond.
The Harrisburg Contraband Camp in Reservoir Park
Contraband camps, often associated with the Southern United States during the Civil War, also emerged in Pennsylvania. These camps, where formerly enslaved individuals sought safety, were critical in the development of Black neighborhoods in Harrisburg, particularly around Reservoir Park. These communities, formed out of necessity and resilience, laid the groundwork for future generations.
Armed Black Men Defend Harrisburg
As the Confederate Army approached Harrisburg, most able-bodied white men were already enlisted in the Union Army. In a historic move, Pennsylvania armed Black men (like Cassius Maddigan Brown, Henry Bradley, & many recent arrivals who self-emancipated during the Great Slave Exodus) to defend the city. Though initially intended as a temporary measure, these men remained part of the Pennsylvania National Guard for life, highlighting their enduring commitment to the cause of freedom.
The Gradual Abolition Act of 1780
Pennsylvania’s Gradual Abolition Act of 1780, often misunderstood, did not free any enslaved individuals. It was a complex piece of legislation that allowed slavery to persist for more than half a century, reflecting the slow and painful path to true emancipation.
Personal Reflections on Family History
The significance of personal history is illustrated through the story of my grandmother, Beryl Warner Williams, whose life and legacy were nearly lost due to a violent crime. Her hidden archive, discovered in the basement, contained invaluable family documents and artifacts, emphasizing the importance of preserving and uncovering our ancestral stories.
The Underground Railroad: Misconceptions and Realities
The Underground Railroad, often romanticized as a network run predominantly by white abolitionists, was in reality powered by the courage and ingenuity of enslaved and free Black individuals. These brave souls navigated perilous journeys and devised sophisticated methods to escape and aid others in their quest for freedom.
Black Communities as Hubs of Resistance
In Harrisburg, Black neighborhoods like Judystown, led by figures such as Edward “King” Bennett and Dr. William Pat Jones, played pivotal roles in the Underground Railroad. These communities, through their resilience and solidarity, created safe havens and strategic points for escaping slaves.
The Role of Black Barbers and Businessmen
Black barbers, oystermen and other African American business owners, integral to the social fabric, used their positions to gather intelligence and coordinate efforts on the Underground Railroad. Their establishments served as clandestine hubs for planning and executing escapes, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of Black resistance.
Afrofuturism: Technology & Reclaiming US History
Today, technology offers unprecedented opportunities to reclaim and retell our history. Platforms like the one I am developing leverage AI and machine learning to map connections, gather stories, and create a comprehensive narrative of Black history. This crowdsourced approach empowers individuals to contribute their family histories, ensuring that our collective past is accurately represented.
The preservation and dissemination of Black history are not merely acts of remembrance but essential steps towards empowerment and justice. By weaving together the threads of our past, present, and future, we can ensure that the stories of our ancestors are not only remembered but celebrated, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for equality and recognition.
It is now more important than ever that we come together to protect marginalized histories! Join us in this endeavor to restore and honor the legacies of those who came before us, and let us tell our stories with the dignity and reverence they deserve.
