African American Ancestors HONORED today at Eden Cemetery

Eden Cemetery located in Collingdale, Pa. is the nation's oldest African American cemetery

Over the past summer , 200 acts of vandalism were committed on tombstones. Locals say the acts were racially motivated,  and local officials are disclaiming those accusations , though they do condemn the vandalism.  See the link for the complete story

http://my.nowpublic.com/culture/grave-matter

I attended a service today to honor African American Ancestors interned at Eden Cemetery in Collingdale, Pa.   It is the oldest African American Cemetery in the nation.  Until the other day, I personally did not know that even in death, African Americans were often refused burial in "white" cemeteries.  I think this really struck a cord with me, and I wanted to participate in someway to "make a difference".  

The event was to bring attention to dispictable acts of racist vandalism committed on over 200 graves back in July of this year.

There was an African Drum Presentation,  as well as re-enactments from some of the "souls"  buried there, including Marian Anderson, William Sill  (abolitionist) and Octavius Catto to name  just a couple.   A very powerful and moving presentation.

During the ceremonies, I decided to have a look around and perhaps shoot some of the things that this day was organized to bring attention to. In no way are any images intended to "exploit" the situation . But I thought it was important to share a few images that might not otherwise be seen in traditional media, for emotional impact.  A couple images are just down right heartbreaking , but I now bear witness to the world of what occurred here.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a significant turnout, for something that was just a "blurb" advertised within the story. 

A new community outreach program has been started for better security for the cemetery. You can find further information in the link I provided above, for the names of the organizations involved in this project .