A highly visible part of the civil rights struggle took place in restaurants. From Maryland to Mississippi, those seeking equality sought to desegregate public eating establishments, trying to secure – literally – a seat at the table. Now, a collection of short films – Counter Histories – documents that history, and places the restaurant desegregation struggles of the 1950s and 1960s in historical context.
The project – which also includes a beautifully designed website replete with texts, resources and accompanying educational materials – was facilitated by the Southern Foodways Alliance (SFA). SFA documents, studies, and celebrates the diverse food cultures of the changing American South. It is a member-supported non-profit, based at the University of Mississippi’s Center for the Study of Southern Culture. SFA stages educational events, produces documentary films, collects oral histories, sponsors scholarship, mentors students, and publishes great writing.
This is a stunning collection of work. The SFA site is a premiere source of cultural history projects, including written essays, photographs, films, etc. Visit often. And follow SFA @potlikker
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