Black Rockfordians in our History

One of the best opportunities as a retiree is attending classes through CLR at Rock Valley College. I attended my first class of this spring’s semester on Friday, 2/11. The title was African American Legacies of Rockford led by Joyce Higgins. Joyce is the director of the AARC at Booker T. Washington Center, the African American Resource Center, which houses much of Rockford’s Black history.

As a person who could name only a few famous African Americans in Rockford, I was amazed at the number of people introduced by Joyce Higgins. I couldn’t write fast enough to note all of the people who have left their mark here.

In January of this new year, a film was uploaded to youtube.com entitled, “Black Rockfordians: Their Journey through the Forest City.” This 26-minute film starts in 1834 with the arrival of Lewis Lemon with his owner, Germanicus Kent. It traces history thru the first and second World Wars and the increase in African American political influence to today. I invite you to spend a half hour learning the black history of our own community.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSjkj2AKCqw

Joyce Higgin’s presentation was based on a new book, African American Legacies of Rockford, available only from the AARC of Booker Washington Center, at 1005 S. Court Street for $25. I plan to purchase this book. Consider a visit to the library for your own copy.