Mother Emanuel

I was around 15/16 when I first went to Mother Emanuel Church in my hometown of Charleston, SC. I was a debutante representing my home church of St. Stephens AME. Each church that was a part of the AME affiliation picked a girl to represent them and I was picked. I don’t know why because I was in the midst of my teenage attitude during that time and I didn’t want to participate. My mom threatened me either I do it or I would be under punishment. I think I hated that I had to dress up the most but it was a day that I will never forget.

What struck me about this church was that it was so historic. I felt that nothing could be touched. From the pews, to the walls, to the outside of the church. You know how your mom told you not to touch things in certain places…that’s how I felt when I entered the church. Like I was in a place that you should leave as it is.

Unless you have been living under a rock you should have heard about the Emmanuel shooting in Charleston, SC where a white guy went into the church to shoot and kill. There is now a documentary coming out about it called Emanuel Movie.

Emanuel Movie

Racism is just as American as apple pie that’s why I don’t understand why so many people are shocked.

I’m not shocked. Growing up in Charleston, SC in the heart of the city you wouldn’t be either. My mom taught me about racism long before I could even spell the world. Here is what I am hoping to learn from this movie

• How to forgive because it’s not as easy to do as it is to say
• Get newfound respect for my culture and my people
• Learn some of the answers as to why this happened which I don’t think I really will

I only knew one person from the shooting Cynthia Hurd. She was a staple at the library I visited on a regular basis. She knew me by name because I stayed at the library so much. I remember I got locked in one time and she was the lady who had to let me out. I was so engrossed into a book that I didn’t realize it was closing time and yeah that was a disaster lol. She was always kind to me when I went to the library and always had a great book selection ready for me every time I came.

I can’t wait to watch this movie and report back some insights about it. Will you be watching? What do you know about Charleston, SC?