Event Details

The Whitehall Family: Tracing an African American Journey to Freedom and Life in 1883 Nebraska

The Whitehall Family: Tracing an African American Journey to Freedom and Life in 1883 Nebraska

Join Meriça Whitehall as she uncovers her ancestors' journey!

On February 21st at 6:30 pm, join Meriça Whitehall at Schuyler Central High School for an inspiring journey through African American history, as she shares the stories of her ancestors and how uncovering their past has shaped her identity. From the Outer Banks of North Carolina to Nebraska after the Civil War, and from Washington D.C. to the shores of Barbados, her genealogical research has revealed a legacy of resilience and purpose.

Central to this journey are Miles and Harriet Whitehall, an African American couple who, after enduring the hardships of enslavement, built a life of determination and hope in 1880s Nebraska. Their story reflects the challenges and triumphs of African Americans seeking freedom and opportunity for themselves and their children. Through personal letters, historical context, photographs, and her own reflections, Ms. Whitehall shares stories of her great-great-grandparents that are both deeply personal and broadly reflective of African American history in Nebraska.

Their story—and her journey to uncover it— is a testament to the enduring strength of family, the importance of reclaiming dignity and humanity, and the power of connection across generations.

 

About Meriça Whitehall

Whitehall is a multifaceted leader, artist, and storyteller. Her passion for genealogy was ignited when she uncovered the stories of her ancestors, tracing their journey from enslavement on the Outer Banks in North Carolina to their settlement in Nebraska after the Civil War. This research gave her a greater sense of identity and personal significance. This very personal realization has inspired her to share the stories that she has discovered with others. They highlight the resilience, humanity, and achievements of a family across generations, reclaiming a narrative too often diminished in historical records.

Her career includes over 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership. Known for her strategic vision, she has driven transformational growth at organizations spanning arts, education, environmental advocacy, and social justice. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, Merica was the first in her family to graduate from college. In 1995, she moved to Seattle to pursue a career in dance and music, joining the African and Caribbean performing arts group Bakra Batá. Through this work, she developed a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual legacies of the African diaspora, a passion that continues to inspire her creative and professional endeavors.

Merica has always combined her skills as an artist and leader to inspire others. Her vision is rooted in the belief that storytelling and genealogical research can transform lives. Whether through her creative endeavors or her professional leadership, she strives to honor the past while shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.

 

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