What began as a topic of conversation less than a decade ago, the Southern Maryland Equity in History Coalition has since expanded into a grand sum of 31 organizations working together to elevate the history of Black, Indigenous and other people of color across Southern Maryland.
Although the local history of Black and Indigenous people in the region is referenced in books, members and organizers of the coalition have sought to make it more accessible through a comprehensive and easily searchable website. Their mission is to promote the understanding of local history and humanize the stories of those who lived it.
“Initially this project began as the ‘Big Conversation,’” Southern Maryland Equity in History Coalition spokesman Hugh Davies said following last month’s lecture at the Calvert Marine Museum. “We want to make sure that everyone’s history is included in our libraries and museums. Everyone in the coalition understands the importance of telling everyone’s story.”
In all, 31 organizations are listed as having participated in the coalition to date, including churches, colleges, museums, libraries, county agencies and public schools as well as the American Chestnut Land Trust and Southern Maryland National Heritage Area. Charles, St. Mary’s, Calvert and Prince George’s are all represented in the coalition in one capacity or another.