Sunday, September 8, 2013

Elaine Mack: 'I have always felt that African people have neither been confined to Africa, nor always downtrodden slaves either.'

Septimius Severus


Hazel Singer, the Blogger at BlackPast.org, forwards an email received today from Elaine Mack:

Dear Ms. Singer

I just read your very interesting blog about Black presence in Britain on the AfriClassical site. As a Black American who has traveled abroad, I am always intrigued when I see any evidence of African presence in cultures that you would not expect.  

I lived in Siena, Italy for several months back in the late 90's, and saw traces of African influence, most notably in the Chigi-Saracini family palace, located on the Via Citta in that walled, medieval city.  The family crest features a Black African figure, with carvings and frescoes within that palace that show him in profile.  I also saw a very beautiful cameo of an African woman in the Pitti Palace museum (formerly home of one of the Medici).  Speaking of the Medici dynasty, Alessandro di Medici was said to be the offspring of a Black slave and one of that family. 

So many cultures claim to be totally separated from Africa and Africans, but I have always felt that African people have neither been confined to Africa, nor always downtrodden slaves either.  Our presence is worldwide and notable, though not generally known or accepted as such. 

Again, thank you for your fine work.

Most Sincerely

Elaine Mack 

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