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By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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| KEY TAKEAWAYS |
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| The Alex Breanne Corporation, founded by John Mills, focuses on Black genealogy. |
| Through the organization, 50 families’ ancestries have been traced to date. |
| John Mills’ personal background significantly inspired the organization’s mission. |
| The nonprofit highlights hidden contributions of Black Americans in history. |
| National media recognition has broadened the organization’s outreach and impact. |
| The organization aims to foster pride within Black communities through shared stories. |
Preserving Black Legacy: The Alex Breanne Corporation’s Mission to Reveal Hidden Histories
John Mills started his journey to save Black American history due to a deep personal tie to his past. Growing up, his father’s role in the Black Panthers sparked John’s awareness of Black pride and identity. This growing awareness led him to create the Alex Breanne Corporation, named after his daughter, to help Black families learn about their ancestors. (The Cigna Group).
The organization makes an impact by systematically finding forgotten stories. For example, Mills learned about his great-great-grandfather, Ned Mills, who gained freedom on Juneteenth. Ned’s tale, from a freed man to a prosperous farmer and blacksmith, symbolizes many untold stories of strength and success. (The Cigna Group).
Family Tree Tracing Services: Breaking New Ground
The Alex Breanne Corporation tracked the family roots of 50 families, sharing their work online. Their meticulous research includes examining historic documents and teaming with historians. During this process, previously unknown pieces of Black American history are often found, challenging usual narratives. (AARP Video).
National attention has boosted the group’s influence. Features on The Kelly Clarkson Show focused on their mission to help families find lost ancestral stories. This exposure broadened their reach, allowing more families to benefit from their services. (YouTube).
Changing Historical Narratives
The group works beyond tracing family trees by finding and sharing varied stories, thereby challenging biases and promoting a more inclusive view of history. Their research sheds light on Black Americans’ contributions, which are often ignored in standard histories. (The Cigna Group).
The Alex Breanne Corporation’s mission goes beyond individual family stories. Their work boosts pride within Black communities by telling stories of strength, success, and dignity. These findings help challenge stereotypes and teach future generations their roots. (The Cigna Group).
The Black Panthers’ Influence on Preserving Heritage
John Mills’ dedication to uncovering Black American history stems from his father’s involvement with the Black Panthers. This revolutionary group, founded in 1966, advocated for African American rights and community empowerment. Moreover, they established community service programs, like free breakfasts for children and health clinics, which provided essential support to low-income neighborhoods (The Black Panther Party: Challenging Police and Promoting Social Change). Their commitment to uplifting the community inspired Mills to help families connect with their roots.
Furthermore, the Black Panthers’ legacy continues to influence modern activism. Their grassroots organizing and efforts against police brutality inspire groups today (The Black Panther Party’s Impact on Modern Day Activism). By embracing this heritage, Mills carries forward a tradition of empowerment and historical preservation.
Juneteenth: A Turning Point in Family Histories
Discovering his great-great-grandfather Ned Mills’ emancipation on Juneteenth was a significant moment for John Mills. Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the end of slavery in Texas in 1865. It came over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Indeed, this day symbolizes freedom and resilience in African American communities. Recognizing its importance helps families like the Mills honor their ancestors’ journey.
What Is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth: A holiday on June 19 celebrating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It marks the day in 1865 when news of freedom reached Texas, the last Confederate state. Juneteenth symbolizes hope and a new beginning.
Uncovering Stories Through Genealogical Research
The Alex Breanne Corporation uses genealogical research to trace family histories. For instance, by examining census records, land deeds, and other historical documents, they uncover valuable information about ancestors. This method helps families understand their heritage and connect with their past.
Accessing historical documents allows for a deeper understanding of ancestral lives. Land deeds can reveal properties owned by ancestors, shedding light on their economic status. Additionally, birth and death certificates help map out family relationships across generations. This research empowers individuals to connect with their heritage and appreciate their family’s journey.
Furthermore, genealogical research challenges traditional narratives by bringing diverse stories to light. Unveiling these histories contributes to a more inclusive understanding of America’s past. It highlights the achievements and resilience of Black Americans often missing from mainstream accounts.
Looking Forward: Expanding the Impact
The organization keeps growing, reaching more people and making a bigger impact. They’re devoted to keeping Black American history alive, ensuring these critical stories become part of a fuller and truthful tale of American history for the future. (The Cigna Group).
FAQ
Q: What is the mission of the Alex Breanne Corporation?
A: The Alex Breanne Corporation aims to help Black families discover their ancestral roots and preserve Black American history through genealogical research.
Q: How does the corporation uncover hidden histories?
A: The organization employs meticulous research methods, collaborating with historians and utilizing historical documents to trace the lineages of families.
Q: What kind of impact has the organization made?
A: The corporation has traced the lineages of 50 families, revealing untold stories of resilience and achievement, as well as challenging traditional historical narratives.
Q: How has the organization gained national recognition?
A: Their mission was prominently featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show, enhancing visibility and expanding their reach to more families seeking to reconnect with their heritage.
Q: What broader goals does the Alex Breanne Corporation pursue?
A: Besides genealogy, they aim to transform historical narratives by uncovering diverse stories that challenge biases and promote a more inclusive understanding of American history.
Q: What is the significance of the work for Black communities?
A: The organization fosters pride within Black communities by revealing stories of resilience and dignity, empowering future generations with a deeper understanding of their heritage.
Q: What are the future plans of the Alex Breanne Corporation?
A: They plan to continue expanding their impact while remaining committed to preserving Black American history for future generations.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
