Feb. 18, 2025
NATCHITOCHES – To commemorate Black History Month, Northwestern State University’s Black Studies program along with the department of Social Sciences and Applied Programs, National Center for Preservation Technology and Training and Gail Metoyer Jones Center for Inclusion and Diversity invite the public to an enlightening conversation that celebrates the enduring legacies of Freedom Colonies and Rosenwald Schools, both cornerstones of resilience, community and education in Black culture.
Exploring Legacy: Freedom Colonies and Rosenwald Schools in Black History will take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, in the Lucile M. Hendrick Room on the first floor of the at the NSU Student Union.
This event will include presentations and a panel discussion including Dr. George Avery, Cultural Heritage coordinator at Stephen F. Austin State University; Jason Church, chief of Technical Services at NCPTT; Dr. Kenetha Harrington, founder of the Central Louisiana African American Historical Society, and Archie Rison guider of research on Freedom Colonies in the South.
Freedom Colonies are communities founded by formerly enslaved African Americans after the American Civil War. These towns and cities are pillars in the Black community because they became safe places for African Americans needed at that time.
Dr. Avery states, “it’s important to identify the various components of these sites—the cemeteries, churches, stores, houses, Masonic Lodges, etc., to allow a greater understanding of the culture at the time.”
Research on Rosenwald Schools is one of the many projects Church has taken on. Rosenwald Schools, built by the Rosenwald Foundation, include thousands of schools for Black students across the American South. The Rosenwald Foundation was created by Julius Rosenwald, a Chicago businessman who led Sears, Roebuck and Co. to dominate the retail industry in the first half of the 20th century.
This event will delve into the transformative stories of these historical landmarks, highlighting their role in fostering empowerment, preserving culture and creating opportunities for growth in the face of systemic challenges. Through artifacts, narratives and dialogue, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how these institutions shaped Black history and continue to inspire today.
“Both Freedom Colonies and Rosenwald Schools are not just historical landmarks,” according to Dr. Jasmine Wise, coordinator of Black Studies and the Gail Metoyer Jones Center for Inclusion and Diversity. “They are testaments to the resilience and determination of Black communities. By exploring these stories, we honor the past and draw inspiration for the future.
“Whether you are a history enthusiast, educator, student or simply passionate about Black heritage, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the rich tapestry of Black history. Together, we’ll celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of Black communities and explore how these legacies can inform our efforts moving forward,” Wise added.
For more information, contact Wise at wisej@nsula.edu.
