Introducing Down Home Diaries, a blog dedicated to celebrating the simple joys of Black Southern culture. Join us as we share heartfelt stories that inspire warmth and connection while wrapping you in nostalgic moments. Find the beauty in every small-town experience with Down Home Diaries.

Black History, Culture Landon Payne Black History, Culture Landon Payne

Oklahoma: The King Of All-Black Towns

Oklahoma, affectionately known as “The Sooner State”, has such a rich Black history that few people know about. These boroughs provided African Americans a safe haven where they thrived freely from racial prejudices and brutality found in other racially mixed communities of the Midwest and the South. In Oklahoma and Indian Territories, African Americans would establish their own communities for numerous reasons. Liberation from discrimination and abuse would be a motivating factor.

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Black History, Family, Career Ke’Ke Scott-Tatum Black History, Family, Career Ke’Ke Scott-Tatum

To The Moon: An Inception Of Black Love And Black History With The Pendletons

If you’ve ever witnessed the black excellence portrayed in the movie ‘Hidden Figures’, you will understand the depth of discovery we have truly found with getting to know former NASA scientists Dr. Walter and Dr. Alice Pendleton. They’ve overcome adversities, segregation, and broken boundaries that were meant to anchor down their ambitious dreams. We traveled to the couple’s home located in Hempstead, TX, just down the way from Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), a historical black college, to learn more about this dynamic duo whose love story started over 49 years ago.

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Self Help Karla Scipio Self Help Karla Scipio

The Purpose Driven Journey

Sometimes, life in the south is more about your journey instead of your landing place. What if the journey or the traveling place is the purpose? After all, the lesson is in the journey. Read more from Karla Scipio.

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Opinion, Culture Connie Perry Opinion, Culture Connie Perry

Black Lives Really Do Matter

Recent Black deaths at the hands of law enforcement has amplified awareness of racism and stirred up anger in the Black community, and rightfully so. Connie Perry, a mother and grandmother, provides a thoughtful reflection on the Black lives who were lost or innocently incarcerated and convicted.

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