Pickaninny: A derogative term used for little black children in the annals of American History. It is offensive but we should know our history no mater what the truth tells.

“Jump Jim Crow” was a key initial step in a tradition of popular music in the United States that was based on the “imitation” of Blacks. The first song sheet edition appeared in the early 1830s, published by E. Riley. A couple of decades would see the mockery genre explode in popularity with the rise of the minstrel show.

Elliots Paint and varnish company: A predisessor to Valspar paint company, the proposed message from this writers’ perspective is that black needs to be covered up. However, it is only a veneer, not a covering that can last but can be at a time removed. The color of a person’s blackness is distinct, it cannot be covered up. Valspar cannot be held responsible for this advertisement campaign. America can be held responsible for the mindset that produced it.

A souldier wearing a Nazi uniform with his wife

Work shown while honoring octogenarians and Mr. Timmuel Black who at the time was 99 years of age. Theaster Gates allowed us to use the coveted 3rd floor at the Stony Island Arts Bank and I thank him for that.

Topsy from Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Portrayed as a wild child, Topsy taught many things to her playmate with grace and dignity even though she was enslaved.

A Valentines card feauring sambo children circa 1899. Featured at Woman Made Gallery.

Created for the Dank Haus, this quilt depicts an African man wearing the Nazi uniform holding hands with his frau

An enslaved individual mourning the death of his master. The enslavement process garnered those that were sympathetic to the master regardless of how he treated his enslaved.

Representations of enslavement, the great migration to “freedom”

Paying homage to workers of the world

Little girl on a bench holding her dress down in the wind.

Docents at the Art Institute of Chicago learn about the Underground railroad quilts