Cultural Heritage Against All Odds

Tucked into the Atlantic southern seaboard, the heritage of the Gullah Geechee people who came from West and Central Africa remains an important marker of their journey, enslavement, joy in the face of hatred, and artistic legacy. Whether discovered during a sojourn in Charleston, South Carolina or during a visit along the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, the Gullah language and creole connections are unmistakable.

Like other indigenous cultures, the depth and richness of dance, music, traditions, and folklore create a world that never ceases to offer depths of exploration. The movement from Africa to the United States expanded and shaped a new community.

And like in other indigenous cultures, much has faded into memory or forgetfulness. Hopefully continuing generations will preserve what has remained, and the cultural heritage will go on for generations to come.