Remembering Our Mother on the 97th Anniversary of her Birthday - Ms. Otelia's Corner

Today, we celebrate what would have been the 97th birthday of our beloved mother, born in 1928 in a little town called Shakerag in North Carolina. Her early life was shaped by loss and resilience. After her mother, Bessie Johnson, passed away in 1935, she was lovingly raised by her aunts, uncles, and grandfather. From them, she learned strength, kindness, and the value of community — lessons that stayed with her throughout her life.

On May 5, 1953, she married our father, Ren, and together they began building a life grounded in love and perseverance. Their time together was cut short when our father passed in 1968, leaving her to raise their seven children on her own. But even in the face of unimaginable hardship, she never wavered.

Her strength wasn’t flashy — it was quiet, steady, and deep. Despite financial struggles, our home was filled with what mattered most. My mother’s resourcefulness ensured we never felt we were lacking. She had that rare gift of “making a way out of no way,” and she taught us, by example, how to do the same.

She leaned on her faith, often turning to Psalm 91 — the Psalm of Protection. Its promises offered her real strength and direction, and to this day, its words echo in my heart during difficult times.

Her ability to manage limited resources was nothing short of miraculous. She could turn the simplest ingredients into delicious meals that filled our home with warmth. With her sewing machine, she turned bits of fabric into beautiful outfits and made us feel like the richest children in the world.

But her love didn’t stop at our family. Our home was open — a safe place for anyone in need. Whether it was a neighbor, a friend, or a relative passing through, she welcomed them with grace and compassion. She didn’t just raise her children — she nurtured a community.

Reflecting on her life, my heart swells with pride and humility. She never asked for recognition. Her reward was in our laughter, our safety, our futures. The values she lived by — strength, faith, generosity, and dignity — are still with us. They show up in the way we carry ourselves, in the way we love, and in the way we endure.

Although she passed in 2003, her legacy continues to inspire us. She showed us that even in the hardest moments, love and faith can turn struggle into strength, and lack into abundance.

Happy Birthday, Momma.
We love you.
We miss you.
And we carry you with us — always.

 

Endesha Ida Mae Holland: From Struggle to Scholar, Activist, and Playwright - Ms. Otelia's Corner

Ms. Endesha Ida Mae Holland’s life was one of resilience and transformation. Born into poverty in the racially segregated South, she overcame adversity, early hardships, and systemic oppression to become a civil rights activist, a celebrated playwright, and a respected scholar. Her journey from the Mississippi Delta to academia and the stage remains an inspiring story of perseverance and self-reinvention.

A Challenging Beginning: Poverty and Hardship

Ms. Holland was born on August 29, 1944, in Greenwood, Mississippi, into a life of extreme poverty. Her mother, Ida Mae Holland, worked as a washerwoman to support the family. From an early age, Ms. Holland faced the difficulties of growing up as a Black girl in the Jim Crow South, where opportunities were limited and injustices were widespread.

As a young girl, she experienced deep personal hardships that shaped much of her early life. By her teenage years, she found herself navigating difficult circumstances, making choices for survival in a world that offered few opportunities for young Black women.

A New Path: Civil Rights Activism with SNCC

Her life took a pivotal turn when she was arrested for stealing from a white-owned store. While incarcerated, she encountered activists from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), who introduced her to the civil rights movement.

Inspired by the movement’s mission, Ms. Holland joined SNCC and became an organizer, focusing on voter registration efforts and educating Black communities on their rights. Her work often put her in danger, as civil rights activists were routinely harassed, arrested, and threatened in the Deep South.

Education Against All Odds

With encouragement from her fellow activists, Ms. Holland pursued an education—an unthinkable dream in her youth. She moved to Los Angeles, completed high school, and eventually earned a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Minnesota in 1986.

Her academic work focused on African American history, gender, and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of oral traditions in preserving Black experiences. Her personal transformation—from a girl who had been told she was worthless to a university professor—was nothing short of remarkable.

From the Mississippi Delta to the Stage

Ms. Holland used her life experiences as the foundation for her most famous work, From the Mississippi Delta. This autobiographical play, first performed in 1987, traces her journey from childhood in poverty to activism and education. The play received widespread acclaim, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 1988, and became a powerful voice for Black women’s resilience.

A Legacy in Education and Theatre

Beyond her literary achievements, Ms. Holland was dedicated to mentorship and education. She taught at the University of Southern California’s School of Theatre, where she inspired young minds to use storytelling as a tool for social change.

Ms. Holland’s life defied the expectations imposed upon her. From overcoming immense challenges to becoming a civil rights activist, playwright, and scholar, her story is one of perseverance and triumph. Through her activism, education, and writing, she cemented her place in history, ensuring that voices like hers would never be forgotten.

Citations

• Wikipedia. "Endesha Ida Mae Holland." en.wikipedia.org
• SNCC Digital Gateway. "Ida Mae Holland." snccdigital.org
• Scholars Walk, University of Minnesota. "Endesha Ida Mae Holland." scholarswalk.umn.edu
• Civil Rights Movement Veterans. "Endesha Ida Mae Holland." crmvet.org
• Title IX at 50, University of Southern California. "Endesha Ida Mae Holland." titleixat50.usc.edu

Ida B. Wells: Fearless Journalist and Champion of Justice - Ms. Otelia's Corner

As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, it’s time to honor the life and legacy of Ida B. Wells, a trailblazing African-American journalist, educator, and suffragist. Born into slavery and raised during Reconstruction, Ms. Wells spent her life fighting against injustice and advocating for equality. Her fearless activism and groundbreaking investigative journalism made her one of the most important voices of her time—a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Early Life and Education
Ida B. Wells was born on July 16, 1862, in Holly Springs, Mississippi, during the Civil War. Her parents, James and Elizabeth Wells, were active in the Reconstruction efforts, emphasizing the importance of education for their children. Orphaned at 16 due to a yellow fever epidemic, Ida took on the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings.

She became a teacher to support her family, but her experiences with racial discrimination in the education system ignited her passion for justice and equality. Her determination to fight systemic oppression would define her life’s work.

Trailblazing Journalist

In the 1880s, Ms. Wells turned to journalism as a means of advocacy. She became the editor and co-owner of the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight, where she courageously exposed the horrors of lynching in America. Her investigative work documented how these brutal acts of violence were not acts of justice but tools of racial and economic oppression.

Ms. Wells’ outspoken journalism led to threats and the destruction of her newspaper office in 1892. Forced to flee Memphis, she continued her anti-lynching crusade on a national and international scale, speaking in cities across the United States and Europe to shed light on America’s racial injustices.

Champion of Women’s Rights

Ms. Wells was also a prominent figure in the women’s suffrage movement. Despite facing discrimination within the movement itself, she founded the Alpha Suffrage Club in Chicago in 1913 to mobilize African-American women. At the historic 1913 Women’s Suffrage Parade in Washington, D.C., Ms. Wells famously defied segregation by marching with her white peers instead of in the designated “colored” section.

Her work demonstrated that the fight for women’s rights and racial equality were deeply intertwined, and she refused to let one struggle overshadow the other.

Legacy

Ida B. Wells’ contributions to journalism, civil rights, and women’s suffrage have left an indelible mark on history. She was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 2020 for her groundbreaking reporting on lynching. Today, her legacy lives on through educational initiatives, memorials, and ongoing efforts to preserve her story.

Her life is a testament to the power of truth, courage, and the enduring fight for justice. As we honor her during Women’s History Month, let us remember her words: “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.”

Ida B. Wells’ story is a reminder that progress often comes from those who dare to challenge injustice, even at great personal risk. Her fearless advocacy continues to inspire us to fight for a more just and equitable society.

This Women’s History Month, take a moment to learn more about Ida B. Wells and other trailblazing women who changed history. Share their stories, support initiatives that promote equality, and reflect on how you can be an advocate for justice in your own community.

Ida: A Sword Among Lions by Paula J. Giddings.
Articles and archives from the Library of Congress and the Ida B. Wells Memorial Foundation.
Historical records from the National Women’s History Museum.

Claudette Colvin: The Forgotten Catalyst of the Civil Rights Movement - Ms. Otelia's Corner

While Rosa Parks is celebrated as a symbol of the civil rights movement, the story of Claudette Colvin, a courageous young woman who took a similar stand against racial injustice months earlier, remains largely overshadowed. This blog aims to bring Claudette Colvin's pivotal role into the spotlight, acknowledging her contribution as a catalyst in the struggle for equality.

On March 2, 1955, Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old African American girl, boldly refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. This act of defiance, happened nine months before Rosa Parks' similar protest. It was one of the first of its kind in the deep South and challenged the unconstitutional laws of racial segregation.

Claudette Colvin was born on September 5, 1939, in Montgomery, Alabama, Ms. Colvin grew up during a time of intense racial segregation. Her resistance was caused by a strong sense of justice, she was influenced by her African-American history lessons. Despite her bravery, her story did not gain the same national attention as Rosa Parks', partly due to her age and the social norms of the time.

Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat on December 1, 1955, became a defining moment in the civil rights movement. Mrs. Parks was an adult, a seasoned activist, and the secretary of the local NAACP chapter, which made her an ideal figure to be the face of the movement.

While Rosa Parks' act of defiance was crucial, it's important to recognize that Colvin's earlier stand laid the groundwork for the subsequent protests. Rosa Parks' role as a mature, established activist made her a more acceptable symbol for the movement in the eyes of both the African American community and the wider public.

Mrs. Colvin's case was one of the five that were combined in Browder v. Gayle, the court case that ultimately led to the Supreme Court ruling segregation on public buses unconstitutional. Her courage at such a young age and under challenging circumstances is a testament to her character and her commitment to civil rights.

Claudette Colvin's contributions to the civil rights movement are a crucial part of history that deserves recognition. Her story highlights the importance of acknowledging all contributors to social change, regardless of their age or the extent of their fame.

The tale of Claudette Colvin serves as a powerful reminder that history is often shaped by unsung heroes. Her early stand against racial injustice, though not as widely recognized as Rosa Parks', was a significant spark that ignited the flame of the civil rights movement. It's essential to honor and remember Claudette Colvin's role as a trailblazer in the fight for equality and justice in America.

Resources 

Claudette Colvin: the woman who refused to give her bus seat - nine months before Rosa Parks

Britannica - Claudette Colvin

This Day in History

 

Sadie T. M. Alexander: Trailblazer of Change

"Education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity," Aristotle once said. This quote resonates profoundly with the life of Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander, a pioneering African-American woman whose resilience and intellect broke barriers in law, economics, and civil rights. Let's embark on a journey through the life of this remarkable trailblazer.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1898 in Philadelphia, Sadie T. M. Alexander was not just a prodigy; she was a symbol of defiance against the racial and gender prejudices of her time. Despite facing significant obstacles, she soared academically, achieving milestones that were unthinkable for African-American women in that era. In 1921, she etched her name in history as the first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in economics in the United States. Her thirst for knowledge didn't stop there; she went on to become the first African-American woman to graduate from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

Legal Career and Civil Rights Advocacy

Alexander's legal career was a series of unprecedented triumphs. She became the first African-American woman admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar. Her legal practice was not just a profession; it was a platform to champion civil rights, tackling issues like fair employment practices and housing discrimination. Her legal prowess significantly influenced civil rights legislation.

Her advocacy extended beyond the courtroom. Alexander was a passionate civil rights advocate, serving on President Harry Truman's Committee on Civil Rights in 1947. She played a pivotal role in drafting the landmark report "To Secure These Rights," laying the groundwork for future civil rights reforms.

Later Life and Enduring Legacy

In her later years, Alexander continued to be a vocal and active participant in the civil rights movement. She traveled extensively, giving lectures and sharing her insights, steadfast in her commitment to equality until her passing in 1989. Today, her legacy continues to inspire new generations to pursue justice and equality.

Conclusion

Sadie T. M. Alexander's life is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her achievements paved the way for future generations, making her a true icon in American history. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded of the enduring impact one individual can have in the fight for justice and equality.

"Yemayá: Exploring the Depths of the African Goddess of Seas

Yemayá, the majestic mermaid goddess of the sea and motherhood, transcends her African origins to become a globally revered deity. This blog explores her journey from the Yoruba religion in West Africa to an internationally beloved goddess, tracing her influence across cultures and continents.

Originating from the Yoruba religion, Yemayá is often depicted as a black woman, embodying the qualities of African people. As the goddess of the sea, she represents life's essence, with the ocean as her domain, symbolizing life's depth and mystery.

Revered as a nurturing mother figure, Yemayá is a symbol of fertility, childbirth, and parenting. Her maternal instinct extends to all who seek her care, making her a universal symbol of protection and nurturing.

Yemayá's associations with the Virgin Mary played a crucial role in her spread throughout Latin America. This syncretism allowed her veneration to flourish, particularly in regions like Cuba, where she became a central figure in Afro-Caribbean religious practices.

Cuban immigrants were instrumental in bringing Yemayá to the United States, where her worship expanded exponentially. In America, she evolved beyond a local water spirit to an internationally recognized goddess. Her fluid and adaptable nature allowed her to be worshipped in various forms, appealing to a wide range of devotees from numerous traditions.

Today, Yemayá ranks among the most beloved goddesses worldwide. Her appeal lies in her ability to embody the universal themes of motherhood, protection, and the nurturing power of nature. Celebrations in her honor, such as the rituals on February 2nd, draw diverse crowds, reflecting her wide-reaching influence.

Yemayá's transformation from an African sea deity to a global goddess symbolizes the interconnectedness of cultures and the universal appeal of certain spiritual figures. Her journey is a testament to the enduring power of myth and the human need for deities that represent our deepest values and aspirations. As we honor Yemayá, we celebrate not just a goddess, but the rich tapestry of cultural exchange and adaptation that she represents.

Resources

Culture Bay African Mythology