The Fayetteville City Council meeting on November 21, 2024, spotlighted the ongoing efforts of the Black Heritage Preservation Commission, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in preserving local history. A key discussion revolved around the collection of photographs and personal stories that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Commission members expressed pride in the collaborative work being done, highlighting the need for community members to contribute their own historical photos and narratives. One member noted, "Nobody's gonna know our history unless we tell it," underscoring the collective responsibility to document and share the community's past. The commission is actively encouraging residents to submit photos, with options for high-quality scanning available to ensure that these memories are preserved digitally.
Additionally, the meeting touched on the progress of a historical marker dedicated to Theresa Hoover, with updates indicating that the text for the marker is under review by local clergy. The urgency of finalizing this project was emphasized, as the commission aims to submit a grant application by January 2.
As the meeting concluded, a long-serving member announced her departure from the commission, reflecting on her three years of service and the importance of allowing new voices to emerge in the preservation efforts. The commission plans to continue its work, with a focus on wrapping up current projects and fostering community engagement in the coming months.