The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire is pleased to announce the kickoff of the Elinor Williams Hooker Tea Talks Series for 2024, featuring two enlightening panels. These thought-provoking discussions aim to shed light on significant historical and contemporary issues concerning the African American community in New Hampshire.
The first panel, titled “New Deal or Raw Deal: Why it Matters,” will take place on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at the Portsmouth Public Library, located at 175 Parrot Ave, Portsmouth NH. This session will delve into the impact of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression. While the New Deal provided vital support for millions of Americans, it also disproportionately excluded Black people, Hispanics, and women from accessing much-needed assistance. The panelists will explore the role of government in providing for its citizens in New Hampshire and how to foster economic opportunities for all, particularly in a state experiencing increasing diversity.
Panelists for the first session include Gene Martin, Executive Director of the NH Fiscal Policy Institute, and Lowell C. Matthews, Professor of Global Business and Leadership at Southern NH University. Michele Holt-Shannon, Director & Co-Founder of NH Listens, will moderate the discussion.
The second panel, titled “Homesick: Attaining the American Dream,” will be held on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at the Portsmouth Public Library, located at 175 Parrot Ave, Portsmouth NH. This panel will address the challenges faced by New Hampshire households due to the high cost of housing, making it difficult for many to achieve the American Dream. The discussion will explore how disparities in housing access reinforce systemic barriers and discuss policies that support public investment to reduce housing costs and boost the economy.
The panelists for the second session include Elissa Margolin, Director of Housing Action, NH; Zachery Palmer, from the Strafford Economic Development Corporation; and Wildolfo Arvelo, Executive Director of Cross Roads House. Anthony Poore, President and CEO of the NH Center for Justice and Equity, will serve as the moderator.
The Elinor Williams Tea Talks Series is an excellent opportunity for the community to engage with experts and thought leaders on crucial issues that impact the African American community in New Hampshire. These discussions aim to foster understanding, encourage dialogue, and inspire positive change.
The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire extends its heartfelt appreciation to New Hampshire Humanities for their invaluable support, which enables us to bring these enlightening discussions to our community. To register for these events and learn more about the series, please visit the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire’s website: https://blackheritagetrailnh.
