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Book Discussion - Voices of Rondo: Oral Histories of Saint Paul's Historic Black Community

02/23/2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM CT

Admission

  • Free  -  Zoom - Requesting a Digital Copy of the Book
  • Free  -  Zoom - Requesting a Paperback Copy of the Book
  • Free  -  Zoom - no book

Description

Book Discussion - Voices of Rondo: Oral Histories of Saint Paul's Historic Black Community
February 23 | 6-7pm | Zoom | Free Book 
Facilitator: Kate Cavett, the book’s editor

Join us for an engaging book discussion on Voices of Rondo: Oral Histories of Saint Paul's Historic Black Community, a powerful collection of real-life stories that bring to life the experiences of the Rondo neighborhood in the early-to-mid 20th century. Through these personal histories, we’ll explore themes of resilience, community strength, and the lasting impact of systemic change, including the displacement caused by the construction of Interstate 94.

From those that have read the book: 
"A fabulous treasury of thirty-three oral histories of Black men and women who grew up and lived in St. Paul... You feel the people, community, and times." "Each story shares the strength of a community that built its own opportunities, despite racism and displacement. These voices are a powerful reminder of resilience and pride." "This book doesn’t just tell history—it lets you hear it from those who lived it."

Our discussion will be facilitated by Kate Cavett, the book’s editor, who has dedicated her career to collecting and preserving oral histories. With over two hundred interviews, she has helped document the voices of the Rondo community, ensuring their experiences are shared and remembered. Kate is also the co-founder of Hand in Hand Productions, a nonprofit oral history organization, and was a consulting producer for Oh Freedom over Me, an American Public Radio documentary about Mississippi Freedom Summer 1964.

This event is open to all, and we invite community members to participate in the conversation, whether you’ve read the book or are simply interested in learning more about the history and legacy of Rondo.

Special Offer: The first 10 Cook County residents who register will receive a FREE copy of Voices of Rondo (available in digital or paperback) to ensure access for all community members. For those requesting a paperback copy you will pick up at CCHE - look for an email from programs@mycche.org with further directions. 

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