Pictured are left to right, Ettrula C. Moore and Oteria W. Broady (Photo courtesy of Clifton Forge Public Library)

Library Features Local African-American Female Trail Blazers in Clifton Forge   Clifton Forge, VA (Nov. 1, 2019) - The Clifton Forge Public Library is pleased to feature the display, “Some African-American Female Trail Blazers in Clifton Forge, VA.” The exhibit is presented as part of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s current focus on Virginia’s American Evolution which highlights 400 years of culture, customs, and cuisine. “It has been 100 years since women’s suffrage solicited votes for women,” Rachelle Moore Melecio says. “It has been over 50 years since African-American women were able to freely exercise those voting rights. Such pivotal times in our history have inspired generations of positive change led by African-American female influences who blazed trails across all sectors of work and life. Then and now, many of these women are the everyday hero, who at times overcome great odds to make a difference in the face of adversity and bias because of race or gender.” She continues, “According to Michelle Obama, the first African-American first lady of the United States and one of the most influential African-American women in recent history, ‘the difference between a broken community and a thriving one is the presence of women who are valued.’ “Clifton Forge, Virginia, is proud to be the home place of many inspirational African-American women, past and present, who are valued for their dedication and service to the community. Presently, there are several notable African-American women to whom the community pays tribute. They are trail blazers in their own right, having set the course as first in each of their professional fields, including but not limited to, finance, ministry, medicine, photography, behavioral and mental health, public service, politics, and arts and crafts. “In the words of Misty Copeland, first African-American principal dancer in the American Ballet Theatre, “All you can do is be your best self. I’m very lucky to be where I am… It’s possible.’” Melecio concludes, “These local luminaries represent such perseverance and epitomize the ‘everyday hero’ with their gracious contributions, and also given that, in one way or another, they are devoted friends, family, neighbors, caregivers and colleagues to many people throughout Clifton Forge and greater Alleghany Highlands.” Clifton Forge African-American Female Trail Blazers featured in the display include Ione Callender, Arlene Cooper, Roslyn Thomas, Jennifer Hughes, Jada Callender, Irene Williams, Carolyn Barnette, Ingrid Barber, Pam Marshall, and June Mansfield. Local historians Oteria W. Broady and Ettrula C. Moore compiled the information for the exhibit. They will also share the exhibit at the “Journey Home Historical Expo” presented as part of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce activities. The Expo will be held on November 23 from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Historic Masonic Theatre and Underground. The African-American Female Trail Blazers exhibit will be on display at the Clifton Forge Public Library throughout November. The Library is located at 535 Church Street. For information on any library programs or activities, phone 863-2519.

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