Documentaries and Discussion

Wonderful untold stories and tales of the unique relationship between African Americans and the Chesapeake Bay. Mid-nineteenth century Maryland offered pseudo-freedom to African Americans who lived and worked on the water. Between 1790 and 1860, the population of free Blacks grew tremendously; some 58% of the Black population was free. This was the largest population of free African Americans in the entire United States, and watermen were central to the success of these communities. In Maryland, the tradition of seafood fed millions and offered an opportunity for innovation that extended to both the free and enslaved.

 

This movie tells the inspiring story of the incredible and brave women of the first and only Women's Army Corps unit of color to be stationed overseas during World War II. In taking on an impossible mission, the women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion shattered barriers and played a pivotal role in ensuring that mail reached American troops. As this is a feature film (a departure from our usual documentaries) and runs 2 hours and 7 minutes, discussion will take place the following evening.