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Memorial to Enslaved Laborers
Cauline Yates (Virginia Humanities)
Cauline Yates was at a family reunion the first time she heard she was a descendant of Thomas Jefferson. In 2019, she was asked to help develop the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers at the University of Virginia. With Good Reason producer Matt Darroch has the story.
How the Word is Passed
Clint Smith (The Atlantic)
Clint Smith is the author of the award-winning book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America. He traveled to 9 historic sites to understand how slavery is remembered and taught.
Reclamation
Gayle Jessup White (Public Relations and Community Engagement Officer at Monticello)
Gayle Jessup White was on a tour at Monticello with her son when she raised her hand and told the guide she was related to Sally Hemings. She says it was a moment that changed her life forever. Her memoir, Reclamation: Sally Hemings, Thomas Jefferson and a Descendant’s Search for Her Family’s Lasting Legacy, chronicles her journey to uncovering her family’s roots at Monticello.
Structural Parity
James French (Board Chair at Montpelier)
Descendants recently gained structural parity at James Madison’s Montpelier. James French, a descendant himself, represents the descendant community on Montpelier’s board.
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