The first Black family to live in Piedmont, the Dearing family, moved into their home at 67 Wildwood Avenue in early 1924. But within months, a mob of 500 people surrounded their house, demanding they leave because of the color of their skin.
That history and more will be shared by Piedmont High School students on the evening of Monday, Oct. 23. The presentation, supported by the Piedmont Anti-Racism and Diversity Committee (PADC), is open to the public and will include light refreshments after the program.
“History of Piedmont: Racism and Redlining” will incorporate a conversation about the history of Piedmont, including the early origins of redlining in the Bay Area and how it affected one family in particular, the Dearing family. Created by members of the PHS Associated Student Body, the presentation also follows Piedmont’s tumultuous and complicated legacy in the hopes that it will inspire change and promote an inclusive environment.
“The more we know about our past, the better we can aid the future of Piedmont,” said PHS senior Hailey Marshburn, one of the organizers.
“A few members of PADC had a chance to see this presentation last year. We were so inspired by it that we wanted everyone in our community to have an opportunity to experience it. The student presentation was well researched, powerful, and moving,” said PADC President Ellen Lee.
The presentation will also be given to PHS sophomores and juniors in early November.
Doors will open at 6 p.m. at the Alan Harvey Theater. The presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m. We also invite you to stay after the program for light refreshments and conversation from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
For more information, please contact: Ellen Lee, PADC president, hiellenlee@gmail.com