Who We Are is a memoir--and a study--of a generation of Black youth (including the author) who were the last to be educated under the system of segregation. Specifically, it profiles the Cameron High School classes of 1957-71 in Nashville, Tennessee. Neither a scholarly treatise nor a sociological study, this is more precisely a recollection of events and behaviors and an exposition of the consequent issues, challenges, and life lessons that evolved from this circumstance. In six chapters, this book addresses the what, when, how, and why of who we are. To this end, the book explores the perfect storm created by the confluence of the city of Nashville, the institution of segregation, and Nashville's Black community and its adult role models--especially the parents and teachers, and the Cameron High School experience itself.
Who We Are revisits the Cameron High School of the 1950s and '60s and the profound impact of this school upon its students. As such, Cameron is emblematic of so many Black institutions of that era known for the incredible dedication of their faculty and their determination to prepare students to live full lives in the larger world as educated, respected, and respectful citizens of tomorrow. To provide a wider view of Cameron than the author's perspective alone, the final chapter includes essays from other Cameron students and faculty.
Who We Are is a thoughtfully crafted journey back in time with a hopeful view toward the future. Framed by racial realities of that era and informed by historical, sociological, and psychological reference, it is, above all, a story of perseverance and possibility.
Front cover pictures courtesy of J C Cannon, President, Cameron High Alumni Association