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Complaints Prompt Texas Library to Modify Black History ExhibitObjections made by some Brownwood, Texas, residents to the inclusion of figurines of Little Black Sambo, pickaninnies, and Aunt Jemima in the city library’s Black History Month display have prompted library officials to modify the exhibit by placing the items in historical context. “The display is not at all what I expected,” Brownwood Public Library Director Mat McConnell said of the private collection on loan from area resident Sharon Watson. “This was not done to offend anyone in any way, and this display will not be going up next year.” Watson, who is white, had asked volunteer Carol Spratt, who for years has offered to create the library’s Black History Month display, to allow her to showcase her collection. Spratt said in the February 12 Abilene Reporter-News that she agreed without seeing Watson’s memorabilia, adding, “I can understand her collecting these items. But this does not portray black heritage.” However, Bangs (Tex.) Black History Committee member Reggie Perry remarked that while “there are some inflammatory pieces in the collection,” the items on display are “a testament to how far this country has come.” Spinning the controversy into an educational opportunity, McConnell told the Reporter-News that library workers would “add some balance to the exhibit by putting up some items showing leaders from the black community. We also want to explain the origin of some of these items and show that what was acceptable 50 to 100 years ago is not acceptable now.” Posted February 13, 2004. |
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