True Stories of Everyday People
True Stories of Everyday People
After encountering an old problem designed to discourage black businesses Larry Williams, owner of a successful security company, saw the need for a Black Chamber of Commerce in Indianapolis. Life Stories Project · Williams, Larry 2021.05.06
When she enlisted in the military, Colonel Felicia Brokaw did not have to unlearn bad habits. One of the many good habits she learned from her parents was to embrace the right to vote! Life Stories Project · Brokaw, Felicia 2021.04.28
Stephanie Edwards felt Isolated and controlled while attending a minimally integrated school in Irvington. After leaving Indianapolis for college, she discovered a new view of the world and other African Americans who were active in the civil rights movement.
Cato and Beatrice Cork reflect on life, love, marriage and how honest role models can help couples get through difficult times.
Indiana Historical Society Archivist Wilma Moore talks about growing up as an “observer of history.” From going to segregated Crispus Attucks High School to watching news coverage of historic events on tv with her family, her love of history prepared her for her life’s work.
Professional storyteller Sandra Harris tells Bob Sander about an ill-fated concert on April 11, 1956 in which white men attacked the performer, Nat King Cole, in Birmingham, Alabama. This shocking event furthered Sandra and Ed Harris’s involvement as early civil rights activists and changed their lives.
Phyllis Adair-Ward tells the story of discovering two truths: discrimination at Riverside Park and the loving acceptance of her life-long friend, Mr. Quiggles. (A written version of this story appears in her book, “Wind-chimes and Promises.”)
Dennis, a professional chef, talks about the recipe for pound cake he learned from his mother and how, through practice, he learned to measure by eye.
Ophelia Wellington talks about creating Freetown Village as a new, innovative way for people to learn about self-reliant African American communities in Indiana through interactive theatre.
This excerpt of Betty Shaw’s life story focuses on the examples set by her parents, how she became a trail blazing manager, entrepreneur and active community volunteer.
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