Preface

“We need to write our history.  We need to get it down.  We need to do it now.” –John Evans

Mr. John Evans inspired the oral history project, Experiences, Memories, and Experiences. As the founder of the project, I was motivated to plan and undertake this project after attending a symposium in March 2005, titled “Minority Bar in the Courthouse” co-sponsored by the DeKalb Bar Association and the DeKalb History Center. 

In the panel discussions I attended, experienced lawyers, lawmakers, jurists, and others involved the legal system delivered stories and opinions. Several panelists were senior and had completed significant parts of their careers. Sampson Oliver, Sally Daniel, Mereda Johnson, Paul Robinson, Bob Wilson, John Evans, and others recalled their endeavors and experiences, difficult and easy, as well as good and bad. 

Their recollections informed and enlightened the audience. In some instances, it became clear that some of the speakers had become subject to faulty memories. These pioneers had done many things for many years and with many people, so it was easy to understand that some specific details were forgotten or vaguely recalled. Because the speakers presented in panels and groups they were able to listen to each other and help each other recall names, dates, and activities that happened years earlier.

For the audience and panel participants, this momentous presentation prompted many emotions: frustration, gratitude, anger, hope, pride, and other feelings. But for me the exhibition became the catalyst for this oral history project: Experiences, Memories and Messages.

Like Moses, John Evans commanded the audience, “We need to write our own history!  We need to get it down!  We need to do it now!” Evans recognized the significance, beauty and power of our words, stories, and histories. He comprehended the ability of stories to enhance and fortify our identity, understanding, political and economic development, and social welfare.

I recalled how John Evans’ proclamation at the courthouse event inspired and motivated me. It was a clarion call. About 5 weeks later, while I attended the Martin Luther King wreath laying ceremony at the King Center on Auburn Street in downtown Atlanta, I saw a tall statesman looking man in a black or dark grey suit, and black hat.  Among the many other dignitaries, his image conjured up the image of a retired United State Senator, or statesman.

Although the wreath laying ceremony occurred in a larger outdoor space, Mr. Evans greeted and shook hands with many attendees.  He worked the crowd as if he was in a 20 feet by 30 feet small vestibule or church lobby.  

His leadership presence was humble, clear, and precise.  I decided to approach him; when he acknowledged me and we exchanged pleasantries. I told him that I had attended the symposium in March titled “Minority Bar in the Courthouse” and found it very impressive.  I asked if he would support or participate in an oral history project. He gave me his business card for Operation LEAD- Leadership to Eliminate All Discrimination, and said, “Yes. I think it would be a good idea.” I asked him if he have any suggestions or advice.  He smiled a wild and steely stare then said, “Man, just do it!”

I commenced the project in 2005. The project took longer than I expected; most participants have since moved on to other position and responsibilities. Some have died. When we recorded their stories in the mid 2000’s they were very interesting and insightful and documented important aspects of Decatur, Atlanta, Georgia, African American, and southern American history.  However over time, and like specially aged wines or properly broken in saddles, their histories have not diminished. In some ways many of the stories may be even more valuable than when recorded. We did it, we got our history down!

Eron Miller

Decatur, Georgia