Community is Power

 _{Black Community Members Picking Beans on Johns Island, SC, 1973 -  U.S. National Archives and Records Administration}  

In 1865 after the Civil War, South Carolina had a majority Black population, with Johns Island standing as the largest island in the state and the fourth largest on the East Coast. This geographic isolation, compounded by the absence of a bridge until the 1920s, meant that residents had to rely on ferries to reach the mainland. This isolation allowed the Black community on Johns Island and many within the region to cultivate a unique culture and a strong sense of self-sufficiency. Residents of Johns Island were not destitute; instead, they were pioneers in the struggle for Black liberation. Their resilience and innovative spirit laid the foundation for a community that functioned independently, fostering traditions of self-sufficiency and mutual support that continue to inspire us today.

The concept of the " white gaze " often leads to the misrepresentation and undervaluing of the rich cultural heritage and resourcefulness of the Black community on the segregated Sea Islands, including Johns Island. Under this gaze, the traditions, language, and way of life of the Gullah people were frequently labeled as primitive or backward. This perspective failed to recognize the profound ingenuity and resilience that characterized their daily lives.

This adaptive creativity and resilience debunk the notion of primitiveness imposed by the white gaze. Instead, it highlights the strength and ingenuity of a community that, despite immense challenges, thrived and preserved its heritage. The Gullah people of Johns Island, and the broader Sea Islands, stand as a testament to the power of self-sufficiency and the enduring spirit of Black resilience.

The Hebron Church on Johns Island, South Carolina, stands as a symbol of the fortitude and resilience of the recently freed Blacks community members who built it around 1865. Said to be the oldest structure on the island, the church is a testament to their determination and strength in the aftermath of enslavement. The building's endurance through generations underscores the resourcefulness and strength of the Gullah people, reflecting their ability to create lasting institutions that serve and uplift their community.

Education has long been a vital tool of liberation. Shortly after the end of slavery, 14 schools were established on the island specifically for Black students. Despite many children having to work in the fields to support their families, the opportunity for education provided them with a wider range of possibilities and, at that time, a pathway to citizenship. Promise Land was one of these pioneering schools, serving as a beacon of hope and progress. These schools were more than just educational institutions; they were crucial community centers where knowledge, cultural heritage, and a vision for a better future were nurtured, underscoring the community's commitment to uplift and empower future generations.

The Gullah people on Johns Island, SC, are currently facing challenges that threaten their cultural heritage and way of life. Gentrification displaces long-time residents, while climate change and environmental racism pose significant risks to their homes and health. Economic pressures and limited access to well-paying jobs make it difficult to maintain their land and traditions. Cultural preservation is at risk as the community integrates with broader populations, and disparities in education and healthcare access further impact their resilience. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including policy advocacy, community organizing, and sustainable development.