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Ex Fabula: History Lessons

Elizabeth Dawson
Storyteller T. Gillom

As February comes to a close, we reflect on African-American History Month and its many teachings, knowing that the history of this country is heartbreaking, complex and triumphant. Our storytellers this week share their experiences to cement their voices in local history — reminding us that the impact of being singled out and treated differently lingers for a lifetime and can serve as impetus for change and progress.

At the Fellows & Facilitators event, “Talking to Children about Race” in April of 2018, T. Gillom remembered her strong and supportive grandmother’s words: “To be black is to be excellent. … You’re black, and you’re excellent.” These words helped instill a sense of pride and confidence in her as a young girl attending an all-white suburban school in Akron, Ohio. When a classmate used the ultimate offensive slur, Gillom’s fierce reaction proved to her grandmother, and herself, that she believed in her own excellence.

Credit Art Montes
Storyteller Chad J.

Our second teller, Chad J., spoke at the Milwaukee Art Museum Curated StorySlam on Power, Dissent and Youth Empowerment in September 2017. His story drew powerful parallels between the way museums exhibit items and the way he was “exhibited” by his former employer. He recalls being given opportunities to speak, only to be approached afterward with backhanded compliments about how well-spoken he was. He was given responsibility only to have it questioned.

Eventually, Chad became the face of diversity and inclusion for this company – but the way it made him feel propelled him to make a change that gave him greater satisfaction.

Listen to their stories here: 

UPCOMING EVENTS: March is very busy, with two StorySlams and one workshop!

  • The “Fear” StorySlam will be held at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at the Times Cinema, 5906 W. Vliet St. 
  • A non-competitive StorySlam with the theme “What’s in a Name?” will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 26 at Good City Brewing, 2108 N. Farwell Ave. 
  • The General Public Storytelling Workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 16 at Transfer Pizza, 101 W. Mitchell St.

For information and tickets on all events, visit exfabula.org/tickets

SPECIAL NOTE: The Ex Fabula feature spots on Lake Effect Weekend are going on hiatus starting in March. Thank you for listening to all of the amazing stories our community of voices have shared. If you have enjoyed the partnership between Lake Effect and Ex Fabula or have any other feedback, let them know by sending a note to: lakeeffect@uwm.edu