A MOMENT OF TRUTH - February 1, 2010
Here we are February 1, 2009 celebrating Black History Month. As I reflect back on the tremendous courage and faith of my ancestors I become overwhelmed with emotion. Although I was a little girl when people were marching and sacrificing their lives for equality I felt the impact of the struggles in my own personal experience. I will share a “moment of truth”.
In elementary school I remember going to what was then called “Leeds Theater” Winchester, KY’s only movie theater. African Americans could only enter through the side door and be seated in the balcony. If you wanted snacks you had to go back down the stairs, through the side entrance, back outside and enter the front lobby to purchase popcorn.
Later in my high school days integration laws kicked in and we were allowed to choose any seat on the main floor of Leeds Theater. At that time I don’t think I understood the significance of this step forward.
As an adult the Leads Theater was transformed into the Winchester Center for the Performing Arts. When I went back home in early 2000 to perform a concert I found my name on the marquee. I had come full circle in that space in my lifetime. I took a photograph of that marquee because it represents what an honor, privilege and celebration of freedom to even be able to perform for you. Through the actions of so many our dreams are made possible and even my voice can be heard. Soon I will be performing again in promotion for Shades of Blue. I hope to see you in a venue no matter how large or small.
Today residing in the metropolitan Washington DC area I celebrate the election of the first African American President of the United States. Yes, with God, All things are possible!
Cheryl Lynne Skinner
In elementary school I remember going to what was then called “Leeds Theater” Winchester, KY’s only movie theater. African Americans could only enter through the side door and be seated in the balcony. If you wanted snacks you had to go back down the stairs, through the side entrance, back outside and enter the front lobby to purchase popcorn.
Later in my high school days integration laws kicked in and we were allowed to choose any seat on the main floor of Leeds Theater. At that time I don’t think I understood the significance of this step forward.
As an adult the Leads Theater was transformed into the Winchester Center for the Performing Arts. When I went back home in early 2000 to perform a concert I found my name on the marquee. I had come full circle in that space in my lifetime. I took a photograph of that marquee because it represents what an honor, privilege and celebration of freedom to even be able to perform for you. Through the actions of so many our dreams are made possible and even my voice can be heard. Soon I will be performing again in promotion for Shades of Blue. I hope to see you in a venue no matter how large or small.
Today residing in the metropolitan Washington DC area I celebrate the election of the first African American President of the United States. Yes, with God, All things are possible!
Cheryl Lynne Skinner