From The Chair

July 20, 2024

During our July General Body Meeting, two new League members were warmly welcomed. After the introductions, representatives from Mount Vernon gave a talk on the “Database of Mount Vernon’s Enslaved Community” and the work being done to expand it. The well-received presentation included a discussion with League Members on ways to improve access to historical data on enslaved individuals. The importance of improved data management and collaboration, to provide a comprehensive understanding of historical slavery and the experience of being enslaved, was emphasized.

Next, members were updated on our progress towards becoming a not-for-profit organization. Nominations were accepted for open League positions, including the roles of Wm. Norwood Holland, Jr. as Treasurer and Queenie Cox as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer. Members were asked to volunteer for opportunities such as providing voices for the audio tour at Mount Vernon and representing the League in the AI Portrait Project. The significance of preserving history and understanding the perspectives of our ancestors in the current social and political climate, was highlighted.

Members who spoke at the George Washington Teachers Institute briefed attendees on the success of the event and discussed the means of effectively sharing personal stories and histories with teachers, emphasizing the value of connecting with students and making history come alive.

The League membership form was also discussed, with progress being made to finalizing the document.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that no meeting will be held in August, but we will reconvene in September 2024.

Kind regards,

Arthur