Winston County Library celebrates Black History Month

LOUISVILLE. Miss, (WCBI) – This month is Black History Month.

Each year the Association for the Study of African American Life and History chooses a theme for the month.

The theme this year is African American Migration, and one area organization is taking a look at locals who have left the state and made their way back.

“It’s very important for individuals to understand their history in order to be able to move forward. If you don’t know where you’ve been, most likely you don’t know where you’re going. So, today we provided and opportunity to connect the next generation of people,” said Frank Taylor.

Taylor was the guest speaker and recipient of the black history hero honor at this year’s Black History month exhibit sponsored by the non-profit organization “Friends of Dean Park” in Louisville.

The exhibit features authentic African fabrics, patterns, dresses and dolls as well as books and write-ups on important figures in the African American community.

“We are a great people that came from a great country. Africa, our ancestors came from there and they are very strong people in order to have made it across that ocean to get here, and you know, we’re still here,” said Exhibit Coordinator Elmetra Patterson.

The Friends of Dean Park is honoring those who left their home town but ultimately found their way back.

“Frank Taylor is one of the people who migrated from Louisville Mississippi, went to Kentucky, and came back to run a program that’s been very helpful to African American small farmers,” said Patterson.

“I have a picture of my mother that migrated from here to New York City with seven of us, and we all came back home,” said former Friends of Dean Park President Dr. Richard Moncrief.

Exhibit directors say their goal is to inspire younger generations.

“It’s important that we know our history because it gives us self esteem. That’s my concern. Especially with the young kids. I grew up very shy with little self-esteem, and that’s because I didn’t know where I came from. I didn’t know anything about my ancestors,” said Patterson.

Everyone in attendance agreed that change can only come from a group effort.

“In order for us to move this state forward, we have to work with a team effort collectively with all people in order for all boats to rise,” said Taylor.

“Everyone of us has a gift, an ability. So let it be utilized to enhance not only just the black race of people, but all races of people,” said Moncrief.

The Black History exhibit is on display at the Winston County Library where it will remain throughout the month of February.