Go Out and Tell Your Story

Growing up in Glenville, Cleveland, during the 1960s meant living through long, hot summer days, cold snowy winters, and a nation in turmoil. We came of age amid protests, bombings, and political assassinations that shaped our worldview long before we understood their historical significance. These events were not distant headlines - they were the backdrop of our daily lives. Yet our story has often been misrepresented, minimized, or erased. The media frequently distorted the truth, portraying African Americans through biased narratives that ignored the complexity of our community. What was missing from those accounts is the reality that Glenville's struggle was never only about race. It was about justice, policy, economic neglect, and the strength of a community determined to protect its dignity. Our goal is to preserve the documentation, memories, and lived experiences that shaped the attitudes, behaviors, and collective identity of Glenville residents - stories that have not been adequately recorded or understood. We must tell accurate accounts of the Glenville riots and honor the people we call heroes, the neighbors who stood together, and the community that raised us. It is of the utmost importance that this narrative be shared. Future generations deserve truthful stories that reflect the full humanity of Black communities - stories told fully, accurately, and with pride. This is our story, forged in moments of hardship and resilience. It deserves to be told.