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About the Project

Oral History methodology plays a critical role in preserving those parts of the past that have been typically overlooked in the standard documentation of history Documenting the African American Presence in San Diego County” seeks to preserve the experiences of African American residents before their history is lost forever. As we gain a deeper understanding of our local communities and the residents who helped shape them, the insights gained will serve San Diego State University in our desire to attract a more diverse student population and assist in our efforts to retain students currently enrolled by meeting the needs of the African American student.

"No song lives until it is sung and heard.
No story lives until it is told and heard."

-Ruth Tooze

Description

Interviews that were conducted over several years with approximately 20 individuals representing the African American pioneers and early settlers of San Diego County perspectives on racial and ethnic relations in the formation of our unique multicultural communities will also be illuminated. This multi-phase research investigation involves:
Identifying the first African Americans to seek residence in San Diego County with emphasis on leaders with connections to San Diego State University.

Collecting the oral history narratives from descendants and others who have more recently moved to this area.

Making the resulting tape recordings and written transcripts available to researchers on this campus, as well as to individuals and groups in their search for historical information on the African American presence in San Diego County.
The more we know about the development and the needs of our local communities, the more insight we will have that can be used to attract a more diverse student population and retain these students once they are here. Placing oral history transcripts in our library archives benefits our researchers who will have an opportunity to hear stories from those who have gained so much wisdom from their personal life experiences. This project will strengthen the campus outreach network in San Diego County by creating a cross-cultural bridge between SDSU and the community-at-large.

Interviews

Interview with Carrell Reavis

Interviews that were conducted over several years with approximately 20 individuals representing

Carrell Reavis Biography

Carrell Reavis Portrait