Vernetta is the family historian of the Pollee and Rose Allen family. She is a devout Baptist and considers herself a byproduct of "generational rearing." Vernetta is about supporting community and serving God through her words and actions. Listen to her repeat the words of Pollee who he himself was a devout Baptist when he was asked by a book author if he blamed God for his kidnapping, enslavement, and his inability to go home. The authors of "Embracing Your Past to Empower Your Future," discovered this interview which was unknown to Vernetta. When Vernetta heard his thoughtful words, Vernetta said with joy in her voice, "generational rearing at it's best."
The Brooks Family is the first Black American Family with three generals in the immediate family. His loved one, Richard Henry Brooks was an escaped enslaved man who fought in the Union Army. Hear the words from his grandfather, Henry C. Brooks which was his son, offered these words of empowerment which is still practiced today. Listen to Gen. Brooks repeat these words.
Dr. Bettye Kearse is a descendant of President James Madison. The Madison family story is preserved by their Griottes and Griots. Dr. Kearse is the current family Griotte and she has traveled the world to learn more about her loved one Mandy who was kidnapped from Ghana, brought to Colonial America and enslaved by President James Madison's grandfather. John Chester Madison was the family Griot as an adult. Hear his words explaining the family's heritage.
The Quander family is one of the oldest Black American Families tracing back their history to the 1600's. This family is filled with civil rights leaders, religious leaders, educators, and military might.