CULTURE CLASH (CURIOUS GALVESTON)
Does Galveston Value Its African American History? By Roxy D Hall Williamson Disclaimer: the opinions stated in this commentary are my own and do not represent any organizational affiliation or business interest.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash.com
MY MEMORIES OF GALVESTON ARE INTERESTING TO SAY THE LEAST AND EVERY SWEET REMEMBRANCE, INDELIBLY MARKED ON MY HEART. As a B.O.I. (born on island), my roots on the island are deep, broad, and proud! Growing up, my wonder years happened in Galveston every summer, every holiday, and all family occasions in between. My whole world revolved around Stiglich corner store at 27th & Q, (where my sister and I bought penny candies, moon pies, and all the things 50 cents - $1 could buy) and the park across the street. My world view extended as far as I could see from the block of 28th & P½ to the Seawall. Pan over just to the left a block or two, picture me popping gum from the swing set at what is now McGuire-Dent Recreational Center, my uncle’s 10-speed Schwinn on the kickstand nearby, looking at the Flagship Hotel (now Pleasure Pier), plotting my next snack. My fun was completely funded by adoring grandparents, attentive aunts and uncles (generations C U LTU R EC L A S H G A LV E STO N . C O M • J A N / F E B 2 0 2 2
of veterans), and myriad cousins. I pause to contemplate, what is the cultural value of my personal experience and rooted legacy - what is it worth to me? As I honor my family of patriots who have served in the armed services and explore the complete legacy of the United States Colored Troops (USCT), I am reminded of a debt this country still has yet to pay, most especially in Galveston. The history and the pride in the significance of African Americans on this third American coast dates irrefutably back to 1528, at the very least. The actual BIRTHPLACE of JUNETEENTH, Galveston will be spotlighted and celebrated worldwide. What is the value of our historical marker on the world? Though I am incredibly enamored with the island, I can honestly address the glaring disparities. The influence of the United Daughters of the Confederacy continues to perpetuate a harsh legacy in educational disparities illustrated by the treatment of Galveston’s Black students. Moreover, the most egregious inequity is in the wealth disparities highlighted by the lack of value placed on African American land acquisition and Black Historical Art & Culture. 9
