Commemoration of the Black Exodus of 1858
"This under-examined history of exclusionary action against blacks was a precursor of later similar efforts against other groups in California," Magee said. "And it was galvanized by developments in the law that left free people vulnerable to re-enslavement, or to treatment as second- and third-class citizens. The study of the black exodus of 1858 provides another opportunity for us to grapple with the contradictions and inequities of our historical experiment with democracy. There can be little progress in pursuit of a more just future for all our children if we cannot heighten our capacity to live with, and indeed even celebrate our triumphs over, the inconvenient truths of
our past."
A number of events will honor the role of black settlers in local history, and their journey to British Columbia. An ecumenical service co-sponsored by the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church will take place at 3 p.m., April 20 at the African American Art and Culture Complex (762 Fulton St., SF). The service will be followed by an opening reception co-sponsored by the USF Black Law Students' Association. A symbolic commemorative launch of the first ship of black passengers traveling to British Columbia will take place at 10 a.m., April 22, at the Hyde Street Pier. The commemoration will conclude with a scholarly discussion at noon, April 25, at the Bethel AME Church (Browning Hall, 916 Laguna, SF).
Magee said it is particularly important to recognize the diverse contributions made by black Americans in the settlement of the Bay Area today, as San Francisco is presently taking steps to address the disproportionately high out-migration rates of blacks. "However else we may act to reverse this trend," Magee said, "to assist black San Franciscans to find reasons within themselves to continue to make homes in the city and to contribute to the evolution of our culture, we all need a richer, more nuanced understanding of the role of blacks in San Francisco history." Last year, Magee served on the African American Out-Migration Task Force created by Mayor Gavin Newsom, which recently summarized its findings in a report to the Board of Supervisors.
For a full schedule of events and additional information on the black exodus of 1858,
including a series of podcasts that feature Magee, Taylor, and USF law students, visit http://www.sfexodus.com.
