2005 Reunion
In 2005, the Reunion was in Detroit, MI, and Friday activities included tours of Greektown as well as A visit to one of the local casinos for those who wanted to gamble. Saturday morning, many of us had the experience of A lifetime as we ventured into Detroit's Museum of African-American History and into their main exhibit: And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture. It was a unique experience for all, and below is one person's thoughts:
One thing that I had thought about on my way to work was going to Detroit's Museum of African-American History and the impact that it had and still has on me! I do firmly believe that everyone know matter how much you think you know the history of Africans from the "beginning" (oldest skeletal remains found were called "Lucy") to the present day, there is nothing like seeing history come alive (in some ways)! The one piece that definitely is still sticking with me is the slave trade and going from Africa through the Middle Passage to the 'New World' where we were sold to "owners."
And for those who work with young kids in any shape or form, I think that it would be A good idea to make a trip to Detroit to go to the Museum.
But definitely if nothing else, visit the "Museum of African-American History." Even just for that, it would be well worth the trip, as if you do not have an emotional experience of any type going through the exhibit, you cannot possibly be 'human.'
For the picnic on Saturday afternoon we headed to Bell Isle, which is the only place in the U.S. where Canada is south. The shore of the Isle where the Detroit River separates the U.S. from Canada offered a nice touch as well for those who wanted to enjoy the breeze and water.
On Saturday evening, there was not much time for showcasing of talent or dancing, as something special took place for most of the night and it was called "Honoring the Elders." On that special night, 11 octogenarians (80+ years old) were honored by their children, grandchildren, and/or great-grandchildren. Along with the vocal honoring of the elders, a booklet was sold that commemorated the elders in print with pictures submitted by their loved ones along with biographical sketches.
On Sunday morning, there was a tour [funny, entertaining, informative, and cohesive] of Detroit with Jim (James) Embry as the official tour guide. The tour took us to "The House That Makes Sense", Catherine Ferguson Academy (Detroit public high school for pregnant teens and teenage mothers), and various community gardens.