This spring, the University of North Carolina Wilmington's Ocean Odyssey program is offering classes to bring awareness and education about the Gullah/Geechee people and their roots in Southeastern North Carolina.

The Gullah/Geechees are an endangered civilization that originated in West Africa, coming to the United States as slaves to work on rice plantations, specifically in coastal regions ranging from Florida to North Carolina. This fading culture had a powerful influence on Wilmington and the Cape Fear region that has long been unacknowledged. With their African fare, original language and craftsmanship, the Gullah/Geechees left their mark on Southeastern North Carolina.

The preservation and celebration of Gullah culture has gained momentum in recent years. The Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Act, created by Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., is gaining statewide and national recognition for its mission to establish a federally subsidized corridor that will conserve and build on historic sites.

"The black citizens, enslaved and free, have dotted the dominant cultures with their personal artistry. From carving and building trades to agriculture and food ways, Gullah/Geechee influences have helped to define southern, national and international lifestyles and cultures," said Beverly Smalls, an instructor of Ocean Odyssey's upcoming Gullah classes. Both New Hanover and Brunswick counties are involved in the development of the historic corridor due to the area's ties to the Gullah/Geechee people.

In light of this development, Ocean Odyssey is taking steps to educate area residents on Gullah history and culture. Classes will be held at the UNC Wilmington Center for Marine Science and Saint Stephen African Methodist Episcopal Church. Experts will share history and traditions through such events as lectures, a documentary, a craft exhibition and a culinary sampling of authentic Gullah cuisine. Participants can choose to go to any one class or to attend the entire series.

"It's important to bring awareness and appreciation for this very rich culture and history of the Southeast," said Diane Talley, UNCW's program coordinator for Public Service and Continuing Studies. Talley explained that the purpose of the classes is to "let people understand all of the contributions the Gullah have given to the coastal south."

Classes offered include:

Gullah Linguistics: Concepts of Second Languages with Beverly Smalls, MAT

Feb. 20; 12:15 – 2 p.m.; UNCW Center for Marine Science; $20

This Side of the River: Princeville and the Storm with Rayn Rowe, film maker

March 8; 12:15 – 2:30 p.m.; UNCW Center for Marine Science; $25

Gullah/Geechee Foods: Tasty Discussions! with Keith Rhodes, chef

March 26; 10:30 a.m. – noon; UNCW Center for Marine Science; $25

Speaking Out the Unheard Voices: Gullah/Geechee Heritage Corridor with Michelle Lanier, folklorist

March 29; 12:15 – 2 p.m.; UNCW Center for Marine Science; $20

Interpreting Gullah Designs: Carvings and Weavings

April 30; 10:30 a.m. – noon; Saint Stephen African Methodist Episcopal; $10

For more information on class descriptions and dates or to register, visit http://www.uncwil.edu/dpscs/AdultEdOdyssey.htm. Phone registration is also available at 910.962.3195.

Media contacts:
Diane Talley, program coordinator, Public Service and Continuing Studies, 910.962.2461 or talleyd@uncw.edu.

Dana Fischetti, news and media relations manager, 910.962.7259 or fischettid@uncw.edu

Photo caption:
Navassa, N.C. mayor Euliss Willis talks about the Gullah/Geechee people and culture during a presentation at UNCW's Center for Marine Science Weds, Jan. 30, 2008. The university's Division of Public Service and Continuing Studies is highlighting the Gullah/Geechee people and history with various programs ranging from linguistics to food.
UNCW/Jamie Moncrief