In Miami, Jessie Wooden and his brother Frank have taken on the task of restoring a historically segregated Black cemetery that has suffered from neglect. This effort is part of a broader movement gaining strength across the United States, as the national debate over Black history and the legacy of race in America brings attention to the state of Black cemeteries established during the era of segregation. These cemeteries, which are the final resting places of African Americans ranging from former slaves to prominent politicians and business owners, have faced neglect, abandonment, and destruction over many decades. Climate change also poses a threat to these historic sites, particularly in Maryland, as highlighted by a report from Climate Central.
As threats to Black cemeteries persist, a movement to preserve their sacred heritage gains strength https://t.co/eqCD9ZBczD
Neglect, abandonment and destruction have been the fate of thousands of segregated cemeteries across the country where African Americans — from former slaves to prominent politicians and business owners — were buried over many decades. https://t.co/mRCmG4nEHy
As the national debate over Black history continues, one aspect of the legacy of race in America is undergoing something of a rebirth: Black cemeteries that were established in the era of segregation. https://t.co/uX3PnTsAGy
Climate change threatens Maryland's historic Black cemeteries https://t.co/wJ9SZLX0JW via @wjz #ClimateMatters
In Miami, Jessie Wooden bought a historically segregated Black cemetery also suffering from neglect. He and his brother Frank have a powerful motive for trying to restore the cemetery. https://t.co/WBbR6h5Cge