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Tell us what you think.
Selected submissions will be posted here, so check back regularly.
5/8/07
Valerie Washington
Kirkland, Washington
Dear Mr. Nelson,
Isabelle Powell pasted away this week at the age of 99. The timing was magical that My
father (Robert Washington) sent me the video A Place of Our Own for me to view. He was so
excited to see his Aunt Isabelle...in action. I spent many a day in my childhood at the
Bunny Cottage. Dad and mom took me and my brother up for summer vacations. No question
Aunt Bell was one of our most colorful residents on the island. Dad fished much of time
with Adam. I was quite certain I recognized most the adults dancing on the beach. That is
because they all look like my family. It is a wonderful keepsake for me to have this
video. The collage Bell is pointing to that hung in the cottage was made by me and sent to
all The Washington Clan to have in their homes. I have to return the video to my dad. I am
trying to find a source where I can purchase my own to keep and view over and over and
over again. Thank you for assembling such a beautiful portrait of African American style
on Oak Bluffs.
2/7/07
Carl
Monday night here in New York i had a chance to see The Film, A place of Our Own.
Beautiful view of
my people. I'm from California living in Ny for 12 years. I know this story of Oak
Bluffs. I find a
way to Martha's Vineyard every summer, even if for just a few days. This experience we
didn't have
in Sunny California.
8/30/06
Alton McDowell
Harlem, New York
Mr. Nelson,
This was a great documentary and told a very important and diverse aspect of the entire
black
experience. I found the narratives of many of the long time residents of Oak Bluffs to be
inspiring
and fascinating. I wish all people, especially African American's across American sees
this film and
strives to live up to the high standards of achievement that is displayed on your movie.
Please keep them coming.
8/8/06
David van Leesten
Brooklyn NY
I can't begin to thank you for the film and an unexpected surprise -- near the beginning
of the
documentary when the camera pans up from the "Martha's Vineyard" ferry to the lower deck,
my father
(Hendrik van Leesten) is standing in a white shirt with two other people who are waving to
the
camera. I know this was 1956 because it was the first year that my parents were property
owners
(Pacific Avenue) and the last year that particular ferry ran that route. No one in my
family knew
this home movie clip existed; my father passed away in 1999, so you can imagaine the
impact this
continues to have for us. Thank you so much for this little miracle.
6/26/06
Lawrence Christopher
Atlanta, GA
Like many of those who've posted here, I found this film, inspiring and uplifting when it
comes to
black families' lives and loves. This is an aspect of the black American life that is far
too often
overlooked.
I found the film's content so moving, that I used the concept in part as a backdrop for
the
storyline in my novella "Ghettoway Weekend."
Thank you Mr. Nelson.
6/12/06
william Ross
Henderson Nevada
I seen this film for the first time today while channel surfing, needless to say my surf
stopped
there. This film was truly inspiring, and reminded me of the closeness of black families
of years
gone by. Some parts almost bought me to tears when seeing the pain of racism that took a
toll on the
father. And here I am a 46 year old man. this film makes me want to try harder, and never
take
another day for granted. Thank you for sharing Mr. Stanley
5/23/05
Kariba Kajuna
Matteson, Il
I found "A Place of Our Own" a wonderful perspective about the life for Africans in
Americans from
distinctively different "middle class" genrations
The older people possessed a self pride and respect in expressing who they were and they
held on to
some of their traditional personal values.
Their chidren, although successful, were willing to surrender some of the culture and
diginity to
be successful in this nation run by the Caucasians
The young college students appeared to have lost most of thier original African pride and
culture.
Thier actions demonstrated that they have chosen to partake in the new "lost generation of
young
Americans.
The documentary possessed continuity and was done with great creativity and provided a
gateway to
little pubicized historical content. It was outstanding. Yet, I must also say, it showed
in detail,
the evloution of the loss of self identity of today's African people
The evolutionary acceptance of the blissful life in the present while digressing from the
family
unity of the past is quite disheartening. Today racism has resurfaced with greater
intennsity to
play and will play a very important role in the successes and or failures in lives of most
African
people
4/28/05
Shayla
Frostburg, MD
I caught the middle of the film by accident while flipping through the channels and it
immediately
caught my attention. I thoroughly enjoyed it but I wanted to know more information sense I
missed
the beginning. Where did this take place and why did you begin this documentation Mr.
Nelson. Thanks
for creating such a thought provoking and sensitive film such as this. I really did enjoy
the little
that I saw.
2/23/05
Michael Strasser
Sacramento, CA
Dear Mr. Nelson,
Thank you so much for your wonderful film. It is wondeful and a real gift.
My heart went out to you and your family with the struggles that emerged following your
mother's
death.
My family experienced similar rifts after our mother passed. Thankfully,things appear to
be on the
mend.
On an entirely different level though I want to tell you how much I appreciated your
openess and
honesty in discussing race.
The segment with the woman talking about feeling excluded from the light skinned blacks
because she
is a "mid-nighter" and her father's attempt to deal with it by buying the old car was so
touching.
Also,your struggles with your father; His struggles and memory of the bus ride in DC as a
kid.
I could go on and on.
Thank you
Sincerley,
Michael Strasser
10/1/04
Kim
Houston Texas
Oh My Gosh!What a Fabulous show!It was the middle of the night,I couldn't sleep & was
flipping
channels. I came upon the intro & thought I would watch only for a minute to see what it
was all
about. I was mesmerized from the beginning!Needless to say, I watched the entire
show!Nelson is
fabulous!This was very thought provoking,educational and totally interesting history
lesson to me. I
learned so much and my heart went out to Nelson through the entire program.Gosh! I can't
say enough
about what a remarkable program this was!Surprisingly, I am a single,caucausian woman and
I very
much enjoyed this show!I would love to see more from this wonderful narrator/filmmaker!
This program
was probably one of the best works that I have ever seen! Congratulations, Mr. Nelson &
Thanks for a
wonderful show!You are very remarkable! I hope that you and your sister work things out
you learn
what happened to Liel!Your show definitely touched my heart!
8/9/04
Lockport New York
Thank You!
7/27/04
Terri Jenkins Steele
Silver Spring, MD
I was invited to stay with the Nelson family c.1962 in Oak Bluffs. I was a family friend
when the
children would spend their summers in Washington, DC. where their Grandmother Nelson
lived. The
video told me things that I was not aware of. It was a great feeling of freedom to wander
the small
town, walk the beach and run bare foot. I will never forget that summer or the Nelson
family. I was
sorry to hear about the death of their Mother, Mrs. Nelson, and I wish the family time to
heal and
come back together.
5/5/04
Yvette Thurston
Takoma Park,Maryland
Hi,I'm actually staying in Oak Bluffs right now. It made me want to meet The Dodwell
sisters and
everyone else in the film. A friend(and customer of mine)had taped the documentary on PBS
and
invited me to watch it. I just finished viewing it and loved how well it was done. Stanley
Nelson,is
a wonderful narrator.
I had hoped at the end of the program,it would tell me how to get a couple of the
segment. When it
didn't,I came to the library and just assumed it would be available online. Well,when I
clicked "To
get a copy of the video" it said it wasn't available. Please tell me how I can get the
video,so I
can share this with my friends,as my friend shared with me.
Thanks very much,
Y.Thurston
4/23/04
SEHLULE KHANYISO DLODLO
MONTREAL,QUEBEC,CANADA
As an aspiring documentary film-maker I was very inspired by Stanley Nelson's film,A Place
of Our
Own.It was very insightful on the African-American experience,and for a black African like
me who
has always looked up to African Americans watching this exquisite work was uplifting.
The first time I heard of an African American section on Martha's Vineyard was in 1998
during the
impeachment proceedings against President Clinton,who vacationed there a lot during his
presidency.TIME Magazine had profiled Vernon Jordan,a Clinton friend,who was said to
vacation on the
black section of the resort.I found it odd(forgive my then African naivete,as I was
brought up
pretty much like Stanley Nelson,in a multi-racial middle class with it's aspirations)that
a white
president and his black friend could vacation on a segregated resort,but I realised that
North
America is still segregated in many ways;blacks have their own
churches,neighbourhoods,etc,etc.
Depending on what tribe you hail from, in Zimbabwe "a place of our own" may or may not
have
anything to do with race or colour.The minority Ndebele tribe,an offshoot of the Zulu,from
which I
hail have no concept of racial or tribal segregation,but we segregate against each other
according
to caste. Whereas we insist on a place of our own as a tribe,within that tribe we are also
very
conscious of ancient familial ties and it still is very difficult for peoples of lower
castes to
even gain so much as respect from the aristocratic castes,their various distinguished
exploits
notwithstanding.
Humanity has a very persistent and quite unfortunate inclination towards
exclusivity.Stanley
Nelson's film,whereas it is a protest against racist tendencies,has a distinct flavour of
racial
exclusivity in it that sends a slight shudder down my spine.True,Afro-Americans may be
exasperated
with the almost negligible gains of the civil rights movements, and what seems to be a
concerted
effort by certain sections of the white racist far-right to reverse those gains,but if
they coin "A
Place of Our Own" slogan they might just as well be playing into the hands of the white
racists.
The Zimbabwean experience,if you should have a working knowledge thereof,will prove to
you that
it's the very idea of multi-culturalism which has always been mankind's biggest
challenge.I'm not
aware if there's intra-segregation in the Afro-American community,but imagine if there was
such a
phenomenon!!Wouldn't it be very insane?Well,in my own culture THERE IS something not too
far removed
from that!
In my own humble opinion,ALL human beings should strive to live together regardless of
our
differences(which most of the time are very reconcilable)and we should dispense with
notions of "a
place of our own".Such a self-inflicted apartheid on the part of Afro-Americans would only
be too
welcome to the enemies of multi-culturalism!!!
4/20/04
Tiffany Tarnowski
Akron, OH
What a wonderful film! I couldn't pull myself away, and when it had ended I wanted more.
The subject
was great, I loved how many stories were woven into the main focus of the film.
I kept thinking about the film long after it had ended. It made me think of so many
things, the
most importantbeing that racism is disgusting and unacceptable.
I grew up in an all black neighborhood, and had good experiences and bad. Some of the
kids were my
best friends, while others treated me cruely for no reason. People always assumed that I
must hate
to live there, and had definate expectations about how it must be.
How sick that in this day and age we can not leave our old perceptions behind us. I look
forward to
seeing more work by this artist in the future.
3/12/04
Jonathon Eder
Cohasset, Massachusetts
A beautful film that played on so many different levels. What impressed me the most was
the
treatment of the filmmaker's father and what that had to say of the uneasy relationship
between
individualism and family, between the pursuit of personal happiness and attention to
legacy that are
such bedrock themes and tensions in the American drama.
This father is a tough, soul-driven character, who chooses escape from his family and
profession in
order to, as he explains it, to stay alive. No doubt, his actions caused much pain in his
family and
in himself, but at the end of the film when he and his son pose for a portrait on the
beach, I feel
that he is the heroic embodiment of a spirit of determination and respect for the inner
stirring of
the individual soul: the spirit that comes before all else in the story of culture in
America, the
story of making it and staying strong. That is really our first article of faith in this
country:
surviving and making it.
And so this film to me is great art. It vastly outstrips any documentary about a specific
group and
time and place and becomes a story about something much greater. It's a story about the
complexity
of human relationships, and the impossibility of being able to love equally all deserving
parts of
our experience. Some choose to prioritize the wild independent soul; others the closeness
of family;
some the preservation of the past; others the promise of new expressions. All of this is
in this
film, and much much more. It makes me think of Chekhov in the sensitivity of the
portrayals of
characters and relationships. It makes me think of Fitzgerald in its insight into the
demands of the
American quest. It's a tour de force. Thank you Mr. Nelson.
3/5/04
Kelley Ellsworth
Washington DC
My husband taped "A Place of Our Own" for me and I have watched it twice so far: once
alone and once
with my four children. The film has not left my mind since then. It is an excellent film
both as an
historical account of the African American community in Oak Bluffs and as a son's search
for his
father and his own identity. It is one of the most courageous and honest films I have ever
seen. As
a filmmaker, I can see what a challenge this subject matter posed for Nelson: a shortage
of visual
material, a touchy subject that many might be uncomfortable to talk about, and personal
feelings
which must have been excruciating to include in the film. The choices of music and
storytelling that
Nelson made are superb, which combine to create a haunting film which does not leave you.
Bravo!!!
2/26/04
Sherrie Edmonds
Peoria IL
Dear Stanley,
I was so inspired by the film. It aired in Peoria IL last Sunday 2/22/04 @ 3:00am. "Yes,
I was
determined to watch it". I was so uplifted and my outlook on life has changed. I now
realize the
importance of having that sacred place to go to and sharing it with people you can
certainly relate
to.
To answer question #1.
There are a group of African American women in my community, who get together once a year
and
travel to various island resorts. Our main focus is mentoring, coaching and also
ministering to each
other about our struggles in our professions, dysfunctional co-workers, discrimination,
and politics
on the job. What we have found to be evident and true is; "no one has the power to tear
down what
God has developed". If we know what are purpose is in life, nothing else matters. We are
all just
passing through. I truly believe that one day it want matter if a person chooses not to
sit, live,
eat, or stand next to you.
Leading into Ques#2
Let's talk about our accomplishments, our struggles in life, and where we are actually
going. If we
live our lives as though we are on our way out, I personally think the behaviors of
individuals who
discriminate against people of their own race would certainly change for the best. Yes,
there is
tension there. Again, it is about knowing what your purpose is in life. If we/African
American's are
using these light skin, dark skin color tools, the negative behavior against age, and high
levels of
disrespect, and putting each other in particular classes because of our achievements. We
are
practicing inappropriate behaviors. This practice came into play against us over a hundred
years
ago. This behavior is something that we have demanded to stop and we have marched against,
but we
still continue to practice this behavior and use it against each other today. It is
foolish
behavior. Has the seed been planted in you/us? It is not about how high we rise above our
brother or
sister. It is about rising to the next level they never intended for us to reach. I don't
recall it
ever being a black man or women that kept us in captivity, oppressed, and from education.
I had a
friend tell me once that, black folk are like crabs in a barrel, when one tries to climb
out and
rise above a bad situation, you got ten crabs trying to pull them back under. We need to
rise above
the non-sense and the practice!
Ques#3
I am so grateful for the individuals who have paved the way me/us. I feel I have an
enormous amount
of privileges as a result of the past struggles my parents and ancestors had to fight for.
I am in
tears right about now! I'm grateful and I give glory to God. The path that I plan to carve
is
through mentoring, coaching and ministry. I have nothing to give but my on testimonials.
Knowledge
is power, so let's share it.
Thanks,
Sherrie!
2/26/04
genoa city, wisconsin
Dear Mr Nelson,
Your father's experience on the bus was one I could understand. Anytime I have verbally
trusted my
memory to a listener, it was like casting pearls before swine to explain. The deaf hearer
put a
misunderstood face on it.
Like your father, when he was so young and naive, I was 9, walking down the street in
Missouri,
showing off my new gray gaberdine, Easter suit. Like all little girls at that age hoping
everyone
would think I looked as wonderful as I did. I passed an old man on the sidewalk and
smiled.
He gave me a look of hate, so bloody that, humiliation, cold sweat and hole in the
stomache are the
only words that come to mind. But worst of all he stepped off the sidewalk and walked in
the gutter,
rather than to walk by me. Hurt, wanting to understand why he hated me. He was my elder, a
grandpa
type. Weren't they supposed to love children? I wanted to ask him what I did to make him
hate me,
but I was too scared and too embarassed. As I got older, I tried to put logic to this
experience. He
was a brown man, as my 10 year old grandson might describe him. Enemy to my very anemic
looking
freckled skin. Why didn't someone tell me we were supposed to hate each other?
I am now 61, verbally assertive and know I can never move home. Even today, I would be
hated by
both sides of that war. I was there for a family gathering a few years ago and spoke with
a hotel
manager there. I told him I did not think I could ever live there because of the
subserviant
treatment of the non-white folks. He assured me that discrimination no longer existed
there. THEY
STAY ON THEIR SIDE OF TOWN AND WE STAY ON OURS. Good God, is their no end to it? Hasn't
anyone made
the connection that pigment is God's magic to protects us from the sun in different
climents? If you
don't understand what I have written here, it's ok, but, respectfully, I didn't write it
for you.I
wrote it to the little boy on the bus. slr
2/24/04
Russell Scott
Phoenix, AZ
Mr. Nelson,
As a young African American male, I must say that I thought you had captured a segment of
my life.
Growing up in Arizona you must realize "we" are of small volume so personal identification
for
myself and maybe other brothers and sisters born and raised here, came at a cost of more
accepting
another persons race and, or culture. When my family visited branches of family in Los
Angeles (my
Oak Bluffs), I saw more of me, interacted with more of me, listened to stories and
experiences of
struggle and despair authored by elders before me. Only then did I begin to understand
"we" and the
richness of my own culture.
What you have captured told the story about you, though others like myself related ever
so deeply,
and I thank you for that.
2/24/04
GJ
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
I loved the documentary. It was fascinating to see a slice of North American life that is
rarely
documented. As a 30-something Canadian of Chinese descent, I too, experienced racism while
growing
up. I thought that I understood the experience of living in a Caucasian world until I saw
this film.
I hadn't realized how much systemic racism exists in America and why there is such a need
for Black
History Month.
Have I ever sought out a community where I could be myself? Not consciously, but upon
reflection, I
realize that spending time with other first generation children of Chinese immigrants puts
me most
at ease. The second most relaxing group are children of immigrants of any ethnicity.
Tensions are definitely unavoidable amongst any group of people. We all bring different
perspectives to life. Among the Chinese community, there are differences in preferences,
hopes, and
dreams among generations and among people of different homelands (eg mainland Chinese vs
Hong Kong
Chinese).
2/24/04
Marian Hayes
Chicago, Illinois
Dear Stanley,
I watched your video last night. I loved the pacing and the beauty of the film. My heart
would
almost stop at the points in which your father almost articulated his deepest love for you
and his
desire to 'just be'.Your video encouraged me to 'write with light'. For years it has been
apparent
to me that the use of film/videos will be one of the best testaments of our
experiences-simple,
complex, etc. Peace and Blessings, Sincerely.
P.S. - I kept wanting to see/hear more of your story.
2/24/04
Scandia, MN
Purely by accident did I come upon this documentary. And I was immersed. How genuine and
sincere Mr.
Nelson's story was. I learned some things, laughed at the exchanges, cried for the
unfairness, and
longed for a carefree summer at the beach. Thank you for this wonderful interlude on a
cold, rainy
winter afternoon.
2/24/04
Susan Taylor
Philadelphia, PA
The film was simply excellent. The photography was excellent. The movie provided real
insight into
the life of the African Americans while away from the stresses of everyday life.
2/23/04
JGK
Cincinnati
I watched this excellent film from the perspective of a uninformed, white male. Thank you
for
opening areas of a life experience rarely addressed or understood.
Recently, I visited Oak Bluffs and enjoyed the friendliness and fun of a such a unique
enviroment.
I realized how the personality of this area invites comfort and belonging. I came away
thinking I
needed to expose myself and my family to more opportunities like this.
Understanding the history and sanctuary Oak Bluff offers makes this film invaluable.
Common ideas and emotions unite us. I hope the repair of the Nelson family remains
positive and the
label of "bittersweet" is replaced.
2/23/04
Annice Allen
Philadelphia PA/Oak Bluff
That was a great film. I now know why African Americans came to marthas Vineyard.I saw
pictures of
my father, grandmother, aunts and friends.I too lost a loved one and this past summer of
03 was hard
in Marthas Vineyard without my loving grandma Eloise Allen
2/23/04
Franklin Stevenson
Chicago, IL
"A Place of Our Own" was a surprisingly fresh look at an often-neglected aspect of
African-American
life. I was happy to see that it offered astute insights into mental illness of American
Racism, and
how it impacts GENERATIONS of people of African ancestry in American.
I could say so much more about this program, but the hour is late. Let it suffice to say
that I was
ecstatic to see such a program on PBS, and that I pray that PBS will continue to see the
value of
airing such programs YEAR-ROUND, and not just during Black History Month.
Excellent, refreshing, compelling, and touching film.
2/23/04
Jolene Munch
Washington, DC
Stanley Nelson is a brilliant filmmaker and the honesty he brings to his work is evident
in A PLACE
OF OUR OWN. I found this documentary in a league of its own, without teh "sensationalism"
of most
documentaries made today that are clipped by half-truths and skewed perspectives. It is
wonderful to
watch the community within Oak Bluffs evolve and there are such warm, endearing scenes
included in
this film that make it universally relevant to all people. Thank you for airing this
extraordinary
work by Mr. Nelson and his crew, and for sharing such an unilluminated and rich story with
the rest
of the world.
2/23/04
Rob Shoaf
Anchorage AK
Thank you Stanley Nelson for a beautiful film. I am caucasion and grew up amidst racism in
the south
in the 50's and 60's. For the past 10 years I have been working to understand African
Americans as
people rather than stereotypes. Your very personal film was moving beyond expression. Keep
reaching
out to your father...
People needing to have place of their own is not unique to your family or to Martha's
Vineyard.
Your film explains clearly how important that is, in a universal way.
2/23/04
Atlanta , Georgia
I am going to vacation in Oak Bluffs this summer!!! I am a divorced middle class
African-American
mother of three who was just introduced to a place that I have been dreaming of to spend
my summers.
The film explored many different aspects of our middle class lives, I was truly touched.
It also
left me with a feeling of starting my own family tradition in Oak Bluffs.
2/23/04
Patricia Brooks
Stanley,
I have been fascinated with Oak Bluffs since I saw the film, The Wedding. We have made
several
visits. It is most comforting to know and see so many of our people there. Thank you for
your
beautiful film capturing the essence of the community. Thank you for sharing the sensitive
story of
your family. Great job! May God bless you all.
2/23/04
Caroline Jenkins
Hilton Head Island SC
Very few films have affected me like this one did. I hurt for Stanley Nelson's father when
he
recounted the story from his childhood of sitting on the bus by a white lady and she had
moved to
keep from sitting beside him. You see, I'm a white lady and I have been trying to take my
mind back
in time and hoping that I have never had that horrible effect on a child ever in my life.
I truly
don't believe that I have, but I find myself now wondering if there have been times when I
have
witnessed prejudice and done nothing about it; if I have heard hateful talk and remained
silent.
Today at the arts center where I work we had a Gullah Festival outdoors and I found myself
looking
at little African American children and saying a silent prayer that they would never in
their
lifetime sit beside somebody who would get up and not sit with them. I just prayed that
God would
hold them in his arms and protect them from hatred and ignorance for all time. I am going
to watch
the film again on Georgia public tv tonight at 11:30. Thank you, Mr. Nelson, for this
outstanding
film.
2/23/04
Margaret Walton
A Place of Our Own is another triumph for Stanley Nelson. I enjoyed Soldiers without
Swords and
Marcus Garvey. Please continue to show his work.
2/23/04
Janice E. Cox
Oakdale, Massachusetts
Dear Stanley, this amazine piece was was about so much more than Oak Bluffs and racism.
Perhaps you
would think that we have little in common, but I too have a Mother whos ashes have never
been
scattered, and family members who were not happy with my decision to reconnect with my
Father. Aside
from the obvious, the piece paralled many aspects of my own emotional life. I too miss the
family
connections now that my Mother is gone, suffer the consequences of divorce, and appreciate
your
Father's spirituality. I was moved to tears by your Father's simple words of thanks for
your
support, and remembered how my own Father thanked me for our renewed connection. We are
all so
different and so alike. It reinforces my underunderstanding of the genetic connection we
all share
with the few who left Africa and walked far and wide. Thank you.
2/23/04
Ralph Harding
Chappaquiddick Island/Brooklyn, NY
I enjoyed watching "A Place of Our Own ", it was good seeing some folks that I knew
through the
years, however this film should have included some people who actually were born and
raised on the
Vineyard, not only people who summered there year after year, this film should have talked
about the
first black owned business on the Island, it should of talked to people that actually
lived there
year-round and let them tell there story's and share there experiences. But overall I
thought the
film was good. I was born and raised on the Vineyard and both my parents still live there.
In
closing one of the biggest things I have taken away from all my experiences growing up on
the
Vineyard is that what a wonderful place it is and how lucky and blessed I was growing up
there.
Peace..
2/23/04
Howard Bell IV
Memphis, TN
I would first like to say, PBS you are doing a great job this year with your programming,
keep up
the great work. Now, on to "A place of Our Own". My wife and I watch the entire
documentary and we
both thoroughly enjoyed it. I really don't have any words to describe the piece besides,
"it made me
feel really good inside." Something I can't say happens very often while watching
television. I
LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!
2/20/04
Schuyler Allen
New York, NY
"A Place Of Our Own" was a breath of fresh air in its honesty about a place that for years
has been
understood as a paradise for affluent African-Americans, an exclusive enclave open to few
and little
known by White America. Stanley Nelson seamlessly was able to tell an important
African-American
story both personal and historical. The documentary never verged on being corny, never
portrayed the
Vinyard as a perfect community without faults, idiosyncracies, but it was loving, and
truth-telling
all the same. We all desire to feel at home some place as human beings, to be accepted
100% for our
humanity so we can lay our hats down, and this is the universal message one walks away
from "A Place
Of Our Own" with. I commend Mr. Nelson and his staff for producing such a dignified,
well-rounded
and loving portrayal of African-American life on the Vineyard. We need many more
African-American
stories like this to be told.
2/20/04
Ranjani Spence
A job well done! Never have I been so moved by a film. I saw many similarities to my own
family in
yours. Bitter sweet memories surfaced and your relationship with your father reminded of
my dad.
Although, we did not summer at Oak Bluffs the social scene had an uncanny resemblance to
that of my
family, especially the 50s and 60s. I have come to better understand the elders in my
family and the
lives they lived. Stanley, this film is a tribute to your dear mother and to all of our
ancestors
who continue to strive for excellence. Be Blessed!
2/20/04
Pam Bates-Kyle
Southfield, Michigan
I enjoyed this presentation on Martha's Vinyard. I had no idea Black's were even allowed
there in
that day. It very much reminded me of Wasaga Beach and The Surf Club in Canada not far
from Detroit.
In the early 50's these were the vacation spots for middle class Blacks who wanted to
experience the
pleasantries of life that they were able to afford but not allowed to do elsewhere. Many
owned boats
and I remember my mother water skiing at the beach every summer. I haven't heard anyone
mention
these places since I was a child. Idlewild was another Black resort that folks escaped to
for family
fun and relaxation and in recent years there have been attempts to revive it with no luck.
Desegragation was a good thing, but it was also the cause of the demise of these resorts
which I
wish were still around for my children when they were young.
2/20/04
Karen
New York, NY
I watched the film with my husband and my mother. We were so captivated we barely said a
word for 50
minutes -- unheard of in this family.
I'd seen Emmett Till, The Black Press, and the earlier film about Madame Walker, and
expected
another great historical documentary. Instead I found a daring hybrid of autobiography,
soul-searching, humor, and family and cultural history.
It is a riveting film -- a graceful, moving journey that captures past and present joys
and
struggles and illuminates hopes for the future. I love the knowing use of gorgeous
historical
footage and stills of an earlier generation, and the filmmaker's honesty.
What a brave, compassionate, and beautiful film.
2/20/04
DM
first of all, A PLACE OF OUR OWN is an amazingly illuminating piece.
this issue of having "a chance to put your guard down" is often wrongfully interpreted by
well-meaning whites as even more segregation. A PLACE OF OUR OWN helps me to articulate
the very
important difference between Brown vs. The Bd of Ed and The Black Table at just about any
integrated
school with more than 12 black students.
I don't think "tensions" among similar groups of people are unavoidable regardless of how
similar
they are: it all depends on how much energy any particular person or subset within the
main group
elects to invest in divisiveness. I think the tensions come when any group has notions of
homoginization thrust upon them.
ALL of the privileges I have are as a result of the work of the generations that came
before me.
The paths that I am currently carving for the generations that follow are financial and
cultural.
2/20/04
Kevin Dakin
Acushnet, MA
Hello, As with the first post, i was flipping thru the channels the other night and came
across this
film. I hit the info button on my cable remote and seen it was about Martha's Vinyard and
was like.
hmm i suppose i will tune in and see whats going on. After about oh 1 minute, I dont think
that i
blinked for the rest of the movie. It was great. Im not a realy PBS watcher, but this
caught my
attention. I and figured i was go on pbs.org to see if that had any contact information
for you,
such as email of which i have not came across yet, but im sure i will. Somewhere. It was
just a
great all around film. Thank You for making it.
2/20/04
Terrence Hill
New York, NY
Dear Mr. Nelson,
What a world! You have opened my eyes to racism I hadn't considered before. The segment
in your
film where you and your wife discuss you feelings toward white people really opened my
eyes.
Don't you see? Martha's Vinyard was a cacoon for you in your youth where the naieve love
of a child
had the good fortune to play. One then grows to adulthood. Parents die, ignorance breeds,
and
mankind continues to disrespect just about everything. It seems you and your wife are
joining the
cycle of hatred. It is sad.
Who in this lifetime doesn't get the chance to experience mans inhumanity to man with
ever
increasing frequency? You are not the only person to observe that your childhood haven has
changed.
You must change. You have led a very fortunate life. Life is hard. Grow up and please try
to raise
your children without the prejudice you and your wife so clearly displayed.
Sincerely and with just a glimmer of hope for the future,
Terrence J. Hill
(a forty-one year old, bald but not to bad looking, college-educated, single, financially
struggling, homosexual but who really cares, third generation Irish-American who grew up
on the
Connecticut shoreline before the casinos and outlets, who looks up to the jets flying over
my rented
Hells Kitchen apartment every night before I pull my shades and go to sleep hoping they
will stay up
there circling this crazy planet.)
PS. I liked your film. I loved the two viewpoints of the sisters regarding the new wave
of young
partiers. I too find it hard to roll with the flow but love the example of the sister who
was
accepting the change, while I would more likely just want my old Oak Bluffs back! Peace!
2/20/04
Jocelyn Coleman Walton
Plainfield, NJ/Oak Bluffs
Dear Stanley,
Thank you for making this wonderful film, "A Place of Our Own". In addition to the
privilege of
witnessing the very personal commentaries on family and relationships, I was delighted to
see so
many of my friends and family members portrayed through the pictures and film you chose to
include.
Our family, like yours, has experienced the wonders of "The Vineyard" through our long
love affair
with Oak Bluffs. My grandparents, Ralf and Luella Coleman (he was in your piece, the
dashing
gentleman relaxing in the lawn hammock and later standing beside the family's "Woody"),
brought
their children and grandchildren to the Island over sixty years ago to escape Boston's
summer heat.
Our existence was a humble one, we were not affluent or middle-class Blacks, and our
grandparents
made many sacrifices so that we could have our own summer cottage to come to every year.
Our summers
there were wonderful... mornings spent at the Tabernacle Bible School; afternoons spent at
the town
beach (the Inkwell) with summer friends...who are still friends today; and evenings spent
on Circuit
Avenue at the Flying Horses, movies, and paying 50 cents for a half-pint of fried clams at
the Clam
Bar. After spending the whole summer there, the only thing that made leaving on Labor Day
palpable
was the feeling that most of the town was also closing down until the next summer.
However the Island may have changed, these experiences gave us a sense of self that we
would never
have had without the opportunity to thrive in that community of acceptance. Now a fifth
generation
is falling in love with this special place, and we shall share your film with our
grandchildren as
an important part of their heritage.
Congratulations once again for your Emmy for "The Murder of Emmett Till" and best wishes
for a
future full of many more wonderful films. I look forward to seeing you this summer, at
your and
our..."Place of Our Own".
2/20/04
tim boerema
columbus, ohio
i enjoyed the piece on the experience of being middle/upper class and black in America.
the show
addressed many stereotypes and brought awareness to the concerns black Americans face
daily. thank
you for the objective and sincere documentary. keep up the good work - films like yours
open up
dilogue for Americans to talk about the impact of racism in America.
2/20/04
Dayna Cunningham
Brookline, MA
I loved the film. It was very beautiful to look at and also very moving to watch. I saw my
family in
it. Not just because we are African AMerican or because we go to the Vineyard, but because
the
struggle for closeness and mutual understanding is something that we all struggle with.
After the movie, a wild round of communication began within my family. My mom and dad and
sister
called. They had called each other and were talking about our relationships with each
other and how
the film had affected us. My dad talked about how proud he was to see something so
positive about
black people on tv. My dad talked about how beautiful the film and the people were. My
sister talked
about the many people in the film who she recognized.
We need more of this and we need for Place of Our Own to be shown again!!
2/18/04
L.Luciano-Burnett
I watched A Place of Our Own by accident and then I could not change the channel
thereafter. I saw
alot of my family and life through the eyes of Mr. Nelson. I am a 30 year old professional
black
woman, who has chosen to raise a family in a predominatly white community and always
wonder about
how my children will be affected by the seclusion. I learned that although they may be
educated in a
white environment, that they still can feel connected because of the experiences that my
husband and
I offer to them. For us it is 2 hour rides to our family in Boston, MA. One other
interesting fact
that I took with me was the feeling of togetherness outside of the professional world that
folks
felt at Oak Bluffs. I feel that I cannot be my true self in my workplace and tend to
evaluate my
inner feelings about conflicts of interest or how to express these conflicts, prior to
jumping for
my first instinct. I am sure that many blacks through the years have felt the same, which
led to the
deep conversations about white folk during those infamous cocktail parties. My friends and
I often
discuss what it is to be a black professional these days and now I can point people in the
direction
of this film to reaffirm the so many feelings that we all share now as well as back in the
50's.
This film has inspired me!
2/18/04
Chris Reed
Bellflower, CA
I enjoyed the whole program. It shows how important family is and I especially enjoyed the
interviews that were done. It must be shown again for those who missed this wonderful
program....
2/18/04
David Raden
San Francisco, CA
Great film but the real surprise was at the end when I realized my former Berkeley
neighbors were
Stanley Nelson's brother Ralph, sister-in-law, and nephew! I once house-sat for them while
they
spent the summer on Martha's Vinyard years ago. Little did I know of the facinating world
Ralph grew
up in until I saw Stanley's excellent film. Great job!
Hi Ralph and Suzanna, hope you're enjoying your new home.
2/18/04
john savarese
waltham, MA
I turned this on for background as I sat down to do some paperwork. Within minutes, I was
hooked.
The story brought out every emotion in me.
It was wonderful to see so many people being happy, just being themselves yet it was so
sad to
learn of the family rift and the toll the past had taken on the relationship with the
father and son
Nelsons. It was touching to see the depth of the father as he told his son he loved him.
The history of the settling there, the history of the people, two delightful
women--Stanley's mom,
the sisters that bought the place in '55 (or was it '56?) and of course Adam Clayton
Powell's
widow-wow what a treat!
Even for me, a white male, there was just so much going on in this film that is
universal-it was
truly a treasure to view.
I only hope Stanley can find it in his heart to forgive his father--I think it was a
courageous and
difficult thing for Dr. Nelson to tell his son that he loved him--at this point he should
show
complete forgiveness and just enjoy each other for whatever time they have left.
Great job, THANK YOU
2/18/04
Sharon
Brooklyn, NY
Dear Stanley,
I want to thank you for sharing your very personal and enlightening experiences. I could
not answer
the phone because I did not want to miss anything. I was facinated by your short film. I
enjoyed the
great "vintage" footage, your beautiful family photos and your distinct comforting voice
narrating
throughout. What I found most enlightning was my own ignorance about certain things you
touched
upon. When your father mentioned his experience as a boy and being immediately rejected
because of
his color..I felt his pain..a young boy no less..an innocent in my book. Also profound,
was when you
and your lovely wife were talking about how you had to make white people feel
"comfortable" and that
it's not only exhausting & irritating but that one is conditioned to do it...
There are many other things but I have limited space here. I will look to see it air
again..more
lessons to learn.
My sincere thanks from a fellow being.
Sharon
Brooklyn, NY
(Caucasian..per Dr. Stanley Nelson)
2/18/04
Gerald Johnson
Alameda CA
After spending many summer in the Bluffs, really wanted to see this show. I missed it and
hope that
it will be shown again soon. It got excellent reviews from friends that saw it.
2/18/04
Phoenix, AZ
What a wonderful, and powerful show. Although the military never brought us close to Oak
Bluff, the
scenes of black folk getting together brought back wonderful memories of my parents
socializing with
other couples as I waited to get to the olives. Although I loved traveling, I would have
loved Oak
Bluff - for the people, the education of moving from the working class to the middle class
and all
that it mean, as well as a respite and solace, however briefly, from the uglier parts of
our world.
The show also demonstrated how men love, and how father and son came to understand each
other --
it's not easy, it's not painless, but with time, love and understanding, it can begin to
happen. I
needed to know that before my father died. Thank you for a wonderful show.
2/18/04
Tom Morrissey
Brookline, MA
Just thought I'd write to express my appreciation of the documentary-- I'm a (white) guy
who's
rented on the Vineyard for about 20 years (mostly up-island)-- the film captures how the
Vineyard
enriches the lives of those who love it. Relationships, every aspect of daily life become
so much
more vivid in that wonderful place.
Here's hoping the African-American community survives and flourishes in OB. The island's
becoming a
floating theme park for the wealthy. People like the Nelsons help preserve the island's
character.
Even an outsider like me can appreciate it-- the sense of community is palpable when
you're there.
Thanks to them for keeping it real...
Finally, Mr. Nelson's portrayal of his relationship with his dad was very moving. He
perfectly
balanced frankness with compassion. Love that meal at the end of the film. In the end,
family,
togetherness, consolation. Beautiful.
2/18/04
Pamela C. Harewood
Brooklyn, NY
Hey Stanley,
A name from the past. The last time I saw you on the Vinyard it was 1984, at the Fair
held in
Vinayard Haven. I felt then, as I feel now - you are a very patient man. The last time I
visited the
Island - July '2001 - I saw nothing of the Oak Bluffs you so poingnantly present in your
film - it
has become so over-built, in some ways a "paradise lost". Yet, the people you interviewed,
including
your wife, brought back that old feeling - "a perfect world".
2/18/04
PJ Nugen
Houston Texas
I saw the wonderful film last night. Bravo, what an inspiration and great history lesson!
It is very
refreshing. I can certainly relate to Mr. Nelson's struggle in understanding his father
and the
desire to have a relationship. The desire to keep family ties together is something that
most
families are stuggling with. I think that we are never going to achieve the goal of color
barriers,
because in America people are judged on their merits of accomplishments and we continue to
make race
the factor in the way we recognize an individual.
I certainly am grateful to those who paved the road, making my life much easier.
Thanks again!
2/18/04
J. Milton
Boston, MA
Congratulations! on an exceptional piece done on Oak Bluffs. I enjoyed every aspect of it.
I truly
love the videos, photos and the music. I have and do frequent Oak Bluffs. I look forward
to
returning this summer and seeing what you captured just come alive. I do wish you and your
family
well on mending its relationship. May God bless and keep each and everyone of you.
2/18/04
juliana
Oklahoma
I loved the film, not only because of the history but because how close the filmaker got
with he's
personal life. I love the whole thing with he's dad, and the honesty is very real.
2/18/04
Susan Goldfield
Portland, OR
First, I want to thank the filmmaker for sharing this story. The most moving aspect of the
story, in
addition to the personal journey of the filmmaker and his relationships with his famil,
was the
opportunity to see video clips and photos of a group of people freed, for a certain time
and space,
of the shackles of racism. You can see it on those faces, the lightness, joy, freedom,
spirit. How
sad that most faces I see on a day to day basis still carry the guards that come from the
ongoing
wounds of racism.
My dad grew up poor and the depression made his family poorer. He worked so hard in his
life to
make a different life possible for his kids and grandkids. I am a child of that privilege,
as well
as the privilege that comes from being white in the U.S. Now I work to try and help others
understand the realities of privilege and start to break down the bias that assigns it.
Thanks again to the filmmaker and PBS for running this show.
2/18/04
J Paley
NY NY
I tuned in by chance and was riveted. I knew about Oak Bluffs from reading "The Emperor of
Ocean
Park." I was deeply moved by Mr. Nelson's gentle,poignant storyline and his exquisite
images. The
program resonated in a way that is rare for television.Powerful and beautiful. Bravo.
2/18/04
Bert Syms
I watched this program with an open heart. Because we have a parallel life. My family had
deep
roots in Oak Bluffs or The Vinyard as we called it. My Grandfather was The first African
American to
graduate Oak Bluff's High School and my Great grandmother I think was the first woman to
have her
own business. I believe it was a laundry service for the Hotels. My son and I watched
together and
This piece will help explain the long history of my family of has past on and now I am
here to tell
the story. There is so much more to this. Please contact me.
Thanks So Much
Wentworth and Miller is the family name
2/18/04
Suetta Sanders
Los Angeles, CA
As a viewer, I can say this particular movie was truly more than just ordinary
entertainment! My
friends and family members were bursting with pride and joy just seeing another angle of
our sisters
and brothers of the past! This movie for our younger family members was quite a wake-up
call and a
reality check as well!! I've had the video with Glenn Thurman for quite a while, but your
broadcast
does TRUE justice!! What a delight we shared!!You are more than just entertainment!
2/18/04
michael lanton
oakland,california
First of all I would like to say the documentary was great but disturbing.I can totally
identify
with the feelings of the filmmaker's father.
I too am still searching for a place of my own.I am originally for the south,but left
about 6yrs
ago because I didn't want to deal with the racism there anymore and like most blacks in
the
south,thought that california would be a good choice.I find myself here dealing with a
different
breed of blackfolks:
1.blackfolks with white minds
2.blackfolks who don't think they are black at all.
3.And blackfolks with an extremely different moral sense from the blacks down
south.Although the
racisn in california is much less than in the south,at least as a black person you knew
who was
black and who wasn't and you did have a sense of your own community.In parting I would
like to urge
all black to venture here to see the opportunities,but to take that knowledge back south
where it
can be better put to use.
2/18/04
Emily Macaluso
When I was watching this film, I began to feel so ashamed of my white skin, I was
compelled to peel
it off. I felt responisble for everything that any white person has done against black
people, even
though it wasn't my fault. It was like I was put in this category, classified for my
ancestors past
injustices. It was then I had a brief glance of what it must be like to be judged for
things that
are not your fault. All of those years African-Americans were thought of as a lower life
form, when
America thought their only purpose was to serve us. All those years they fought to be seen
as anyone
else, as equals. Even amongst themselves their is segregation. They are still fighting
today, for
the God-given right to live freely among us, to be themselves and not be rejected for it.
To be
completely free from prejudice is impossible in this world, because it is man's natural
instinct to
judge. Everyone who judges will be judged, and it will be this way until the end of time.
I hope
people will begin to see that its not the outside that matters, it's what is inside that
counts.
Emily Macaluso, age 15
2/18/04
I was deeply moved by this film which addresses racial issues, and others, so well. I
relate to the
idea of a place offering the opportunity to truly be oneself. I have found such an
opportunity at a
small cottage on the Rhode Island coast for over 54 years. Thanks for a beautiful film,
and for
showing me sides of myself I only vaguely knew were there.
2/18/04
framingham ,mass
I didn't get to see the oak bluff story on pbs, but I read the book A place of our own."
and found
it aspiring and depressing. Aspiring because now I learn that I'm not the only upper class
African
american that reaches for the stars. I grew up in the south; where many blacks didn't
think that
blacks lived with windows, doors or have an education without "saling out". What I found
depressing
is that my parents never had the chance to know anything about Oak Bluff. I belived that
if they did
My and my brothers childhood would be richer and I wouldn't miss out on the African
Experince of
growing up with African American friends who has the same dream as I have.
2/18/04
Jenifer Hester
Bedminster, NJ
Hello, this was a great show! I made sure that I stayed up yesterday night so that I could
catch it.
I am a member of the Coleman family on Myrtle Ave. I still love going there, because it is
a place
where I can get away from my everyday life. I love to hear the fog horn, smell the salty
air, see
the boats at the dock, enjoy the peace and quiet, and most of all, going to the beach! It
is a home
away from home for me. Thank you for doing this documentary! It was wonderful.
2/18/04
Lena
Paia, Maui
I WAS TRULY MOVED. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY. I THINK YOUR FATHER AND YOUR
RELATIONSHIP IS
WHAT AFFECTED ME THE MOST. HOW LUCKY THAT YOU ARE BOTH ALIVE AND ABLE TO CONTINUE YOUR
RELATIONSHIP
TO WHERE IT IS NOW. IN THE END IT IS ALL ABOUT TRUTH,ACCEPTANCE,LOVE AND FORGIVENESS ISN'T
IT?
2/18/04
Gail Dossman Tolliver
Anchorage, Alaska
I thoroughly enjoyed A PLACE OF OUR OWN this evening. I left work late and knew I wouldn't
make it
home in time so stopped by my son's home to watch. Your interview with Belle Powell was
priceless. I
watched THE MURDER OF EMMITT TILL last evening and it was just as captivating. I
definitely will be
in front of the TV screen on Monday to watch THE BLACK PRESS. I plan to purchase all of
the films as
they are available. Thank you for your contribution to the documentation of black history.
I pride
myself in knowing a lot of our history but am always eager to learn more or even just
review the
knowledge that I already posess. Films like yours are especially important for our young
people.
Thanks again, I look forward to more of your works.
2/18/04
Terry
After watching your film, I became interested in visiting Martha's Vineyard, so I will.
Just looking and listening to the people there, I just knew this was the place my family
and I
should have been raised. Things would have been much different and better for us all.
2/18/04
sheila snow
Eugene, OR
Thank you! What a beautiful story full of beautiful people. I was so moved by this story
that I had
to write and express my appreciation...I was very emotional by the end of the story. I am
a
"caucasion" woman who grew up in the South...my childhood was the product of a lonely,
fatherless,
conservative environment. I always envied my black brothers and sisters. No matter the
horrible
racism and poverty they suffered....I always felt they were the luckiest people I
knew...with the
sense of brotherhood and sharing I never knew. And, I feel, the greatest compliment I can
most
humbly offer is the wish that, in my second life, I can be one of them. Your wonderful
story only
reinforced this wish.
2/18/04
San Carlos, CA
I thought this was a beautiful documentary. So often we see documentaries about the
difficulties of
being a minority in this country without speaking to the courage, love, and support that
keep us
going....I was touched to see a story of belonging, strength, community, and pride.
2/18/04
judi henderson
oakland, ca
Loved the film! Keep up the good work! I grew up on the west coast and was unfamiliar with
the
experience of blacks on Martha's Vineyard. Your film was educational, life-affirming and
thought-provoking.
The insight that you provided on your own personal family life gave the film more depth
(not that
it needed it) and richness.
Sorry to hear the you and your sister Jil do not get along. I had read some of her books
and
remember the references that she mentioned from time to time about summers spent on the
Vineyard.
2/18/04
Cedric Holloman
I read "Emperor of Ocean Park" last year. I really enjoyed the book but I appreciate Mr.
Nelson
giving me a real "sense" of the place in his poignant portrayal of his family & Ocean Park
in this
film. Thank you for affecting me positively.
2/18/04
Nantucket, MA
I am not a "well-to-do-African-American, I was a white,lower middle-class mill kid from
South
Carolina. However, I sought out a community over 12 years ago that provided a sense of
belonging to
me. I live on the sister island of Martha's Vineyard: Nantucket.
I grew up in the South, so, I might just see or feel things a bit differently than most
native New
Englanders, as well not seeing things at all like my Southern family in SC.
What is a "similar" group of people? We are all the same people,regardless of skin color,
our
hearts beat and all of our blood is red. The black children that I grew up with were
treated so
...without care...I always tried to make them my friends.
I try to teach my children that we are all the same people and that skin color is not a
difference.
Our differences are in our minds and in our hearts. Thre are good and bad people amongst
us all. It
is wonderful to be aware and proud of our heritage, but I believe that we should all start
letting
our kids see that all people are the same kind of people, the individuals that THEY CHOOSE
to be,
regardless of the color of their skin, their religion, etc.
My parents remain in the dark in regards to prejudice, I however , try, everyday to
stress to my
girls that everyone is human, and deserving of equal treatment and respect. Let's just be
friends
and love each other. My parents did nothing to make me accept others, but perhaps, in
retrospect,
their predjudice was the very thing that opened my mind and made me see that we are all
the same. I
guess they did something right after all.
2/18/04
Gail Cox
Stanley: While locked in my hotel room tonight during yet another business trip, I just
happened to
notice your documentary on "A Place of Our Own;" on Oak Bluff; on your father and his
demons; on
your unresolved family issues; on the story of so many of our sisters and brothers; on the
peace and
joy that you have managed to find in that place you are blessed to call home. Your
documentary
caused me to feel such joy and such pain . . . such pride and such sadness . . . about
what we have
accomplished, about how much things remain the same, about how much we have lost.
Thanks for sharing your story and for telling one of ours. I will pray that you and Jill
and your
whole family (however you are able to define family) will be able to find your way back to
all of
the traditions that Liel tried to establish . . . to commit to leaving a legacy for your
future
generations. For all that your father was unable to give to you, he has given you one gift
that so
many people never have . . . one of the greatest gifts that anyone can have . . . a place
that is
"home" . . . a place to feel at peace . . . a place to call your own. God Bless him for
doing that
in spite of all that troubled him.
I will look for you and your family on the porch next time we pass through Oak Bluffs. I
will count
on it. God Bless.
2/18/04
renault verone
brooklyn, new york
Bravo! Stanley Nelsons vision of Oak Bluffs is a powerful example of the inginuinty of the
black
middle class to find their place in America. The documentary speaks to the sucess that we
all aspire
to attain. Mr. Nelson has opened up a small part of the American sucess story without
harming the
soul and the spirit of his subjects. As an aspiring Director/Producer at the University of
West
Floida in Pensacola I have paid close attention to the work of Mr. Nelson and I hope to
one day have
similar visions and insight into the the pluse of America.
2/18/04
P Newton
Arlington Texas
Great Show. I truly enjoyed it. I appreciate your honesty and openness in talking about
color
preferences within the African American culture. Thanks for sharing this story of your
upbringing
and your family.
2/18/04
GEORGE BOSTICK
CORAM,NEW YORK
Great film.I'm in my late 50s and the old 1950s part of the film brought back many
memories of my
chidhood in the those days.Even though I didn't come from a middle class back round(more
of a poorer
back round)and lived on LongIsland back in the mid 50s,my mother's people,who lived in
Queens and
Manhatten were more of the middle class black americans and looked alot like the people in
the
film.My mother's family would drive out to where my family lived on eastern LongIsland on
the week
ends back then and bring their movie camera with them and take movies that looked like the
home
movies in the film.
Thanks for a great insight into another world that I and alot of other people like me had
never had
a chance to be a part of.
2/18/04
Hafeezah, A Circle of Sisters
Mount Vernon, New York
Dear Brother,
Your film was deeply insightful, raising the multi-layered issues of many undiscussed and
painful
conse-quences of racism in America that continue to plague Black folks today: dark skinned
sisters,
light skinned segregation, good hair/bad hair, "fitting in" with your own folks, and the
childhood
trauma that your father never overcame. Thank you for this powerful contribution to the
ongoing
conversation of our behavioral psychosis of Africans in America. I'm sure Dr. Joy
DeGruy-Leary will
have some cogent insights about your work.
Warmly,
Hafeezah
2/18/04
Ainka Shackleford
Brooklyn, NY
I stumbled upon "A Place of Our Own" on channel 13. I love Stanley Nelson's work so I was
delighted
to have caught it.
The work that he is doing, the subjects that he is documenting are so important. I'm so
grateful
that he is out there documenting our history.
Ever since I read "Member of the Club" by Lawrence Otis Graham I have been so intrigued
with
anything that seeks to address the quandry that is being black and privileged, or even
striving to
be privileged, in this country.
2/18/04
Gary Gray
NYC
Hi Stanley, I saw your film a miniut ago, and was glued to the screen. I lived on the
Vinyard
1971-4, and new and partied with your father in that wonderful house. He was always
generous, and
just loved to dance. Some of your film seemed a little sad, I don't think I ever met your
mother,
but from the few funky moves she displayed in the film I know she must have been a great
woman. You
look very familiar, I'm not sure if we ever met, but I bet we have. My name is Gary, but I
was also
known as "GROG". I played guitar, and did whatever kind of work I could find. So, just
wanted to say
a few words. Thanks for the great memories, and some new facts I did not know.........GG
2/18/04
Rudolph Avalon Inman, Jr.
Brooklyn, NY
I was so delighted to see the documentary/history of Oak Bluffs. My Family
Armstrong/Simmelkjaer
frequented the island in the early to late sixties. Although i was a very young boy, I
still have
the smell of the air in my mind every so often. I was equally excited when I happened by
my local
PBS station and heard those words, OAK BLUFFS. I had to stop what I was doing and listened
with only
happy thoughts. I would so like to take my daughters to the place of my youth. I will be
talking to
my only living member of the family that would know where the Family rented the summer
place. All I
can recall is the owner(I believe) with the name of Reynolds. This show by Mr. Nelson was
right on
target when he said it is nice to see middleclass blacks being themselves, not performing
for the
powers that be BRAVO Mr.Nelson,and PBS. I am only sad because I caught the program inthe
last
fifteen minutes.
2/18/04
Ed Saxon
I'm a white New Yorker. A film producer myself and I was really touched by the film.
Fathers and sons, summers as special times, time as a special meter that won't stop
running. This
is a film with universal appeal that touched me as a father, a son, and a filmmaker
2/18/04
Angela Dunn
Austin, Texas
That was a wonderful documentary. It was very honest and hopefully now it will be realized
how
diverse our culture is. Beautiful, I hope to give my children a gift of a family home.
2/18/04
Scott H. Seaver
Boxford, MA
Stanley,
I met your father through mutual friends when I worked for Edgartown Marine as one of
their first
launch drivers in the late '70's.
He expressed an interest in learning to sail so I invited him to go sailing on my 16 foot
Hobie cat
in Edgartown Harbor. He showed up in his signature blue jeans coveralls, barefoot, with a
rose
behind his ear. We sailed out into Vineyard Sound and I let him take the helm.
I tried to coach him to sail trimmed to the wind. He refused; saying that for most of his
life
people had told him what to do. ( I still have a healthy distrust for dentists after
hearing his
tirade about the dental profession. } He wanted to discover sailing on his own terms. We
sailed in
circles until he finally got a feel for the wind/sails.
I took a lot of people sailing during my eight summers on the Vineyard but none of them
exhibited
the childlike wonderment of your father. I was lucky to have met him and I look forward to
viewing
your film.
Sincerely, Scott H. Seaver
2/17/04
Eric K. Toomer
Atlanta, GA
Congratulations! I heard that your film would be shown on our local PBS station and could
not resist
sending a "shout out". Anyhow, I'm certain that its representation will do honor to the
people that
lived parts of the Oak Bluff's experience... I can't wait to see it! I will do a follow-up
email
after viewing it, stay tuned.
Regards,
EKT
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