Join members of the United Order of Tents to learn about their history of resistance and current efforts!
In the mid-1800s, the United Order of Tents emerged as a grassroots response to the pressing needs of the Black community, founded by two formerly enslaved women. These gatherings brought women together to engage in social discourse, address critical societal challenges, and devise solutions for helping others. Their early endeavors encompassed caring for the sick, burying the departed, and aiding enslaved Black individuals in their pursuit of freedom.
Today, this dedicated assembly of Black women remains resolute in their commitment to champion pressing social issues, with a particular focus on the economic empowerment of Black women and girls. In this illuminating discussion, both novice and seasoned members of the United Order of Tents Eastern District #3 will share their personal experiences within the organization, shedding light on their ongoing efforts to restore the historic Brooklyn headquarters to its former grandeur.
Black Historic Sites in Conversation is a series of virtual talks in collaboration with different Black heritage sites & cultural centers in the greater NYC area, about the ongoing work of preserving, interpreting, and celebrating Black history and historical figures.
This program is supported by the Mellon Foundation.
About the Speakers:
President Essie E. Gregory, originally from South Carolina, excelled in the New York City education system and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Polytechnic Institute of New York University, along with a Master of Science in Management from Long Island University. She values her family, religious faith, and enjoys world travel to experience diverse cultures. Her active involvement in her church, Emmanuel Baptist, includes work with the Primetime Ministry, volunteer ministry, and teaching Sunday School. Essie's well-rounded background also encompasses membership in various social, civic, community, fraternal, and service organizations, such as the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., Brooklyn Section, and the United Order of Tents.
Retired from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs after over 31 years of service, she has received numerous awards for her dedication, including the Business Association Community Service Award, the President's Award, and more. Essie takes pride in her commitment to service and finds self-satisfaction in her contributions to others.
Kisha Clinton is a graduate of Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia majoring in English Language Arts Education and received her Master of Science in English Education from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, New York. Although born and raised in New York City, she is a first-generation American and the first child of Panamanian immigrants. Kisha has been an educator for the past 30 years in both Catholic and New York City Public Schools where she has taught a wide range of grades and abilities.
Kisha is a member of St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church and serves the parish in various ways including being a Lector, Digital Minister and is the Immediate Past President of the Rosary Society. She has a passion to serve her community and is an active member in several Public Service Community organizations including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Queens Alumnae Chapter; The National Association of University Women where she serves as Lay Member of the Northeast Section. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Lewis Latimer House Museum in Flushing, Queens and The Riverton Street Charter School in St. Albans, Queens. She is also a member of the United Order of Tents Eastern District No. 3. Diretha Tent #35.
Sister Akosua Levine is a phenomenal woman who has dedicated two decades of her life to making a positive impact in the community. A proud resident of Bedstuy, she has immersed herself in the neighborhood, actively engaging in healing, assisting, and working alongside her fellow residents. Sister Levine has become a trusted pillar of the community, a dependable figure that many can rely on and turn to for support.
Currently, she is at the forefront of several community service projects in collaboration with the United Order of Tents and their partners. Through her unwavering commitment and leadership, Sister Levine continues to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the community she holds dear.
Audience:
Adults