Renowned Gullah Historial Visits Dutch Fork High!

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

This week will begin African American History Month. February is a recognized, nationwide celebration that provides the opportunity for all Americans to reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have contributed in the shaping of our great country. Dutch Fork High School will begin it's celebration with a renowned Gullah historian. Mr. Donald Sweeper will be here on Friday February 5, 2011 from 8:30-11:30 to bring alive the Gullah Culture from a personal perspective.

Mr. Sweeper does performances of famous African Americans to enhance the knowledge of students and adults.  His reenactments of Congressman Robert Smalls (1839-1915) and Dr. Ernest Everett Just (1883-1941) have received notable critical acclaim.  He has done performances at major events such as the National Black Arts Festival (Auburn Ave Research Library) Atlanta, Georgia, the National Marine Educators Conferences Portland Maine, Monterey California, Gatlinburg Tennessee, and Savannah Georgia.  He does yearly performances at the Richland County Public Library usually during February (African American History Month).