Truth Be Told: Virginia

Cyarra and her sisters grew up living in most all of the housing projects in Norfolk. Leaving the loving care of her grandparents, she had to grow up quickly–navigating the difficulties of living wit…

Marv is the son of the neighborhood Candy Lady, learning both how to hustle and how to solve disputes in the community from his charismatic Mother who kept more than just her son safe via her connect…

Don Juan Bethea is the first Black Male Nurse in Depaul Hospital. He has worked in most hospitals in the region, including Norfolk Community Hospital, where he learned about patient care, and how to …

Historic preservation can be self preservation, but what are we preserving, and for whom? In Newsome Farms–a stone’s throw from the future site of the Virginia African American Cultural Center–an unc…

For more info on early integrators of the Virginia Beach Police Department, check out "Black Law Enforcement Pioneers" by Deputy Chief P{atrick L. Gallagher and Edna Hawkins-Hendrix. 

https://www.vaac…

Step into Mill Dam–specifically the Haynes family's world, where basketball games with a makeshift hoop and a home that was a haven for kids reveal a profound tale of communal care. When trying to bu…

From the bus stop to the courthouse–In Gracetown, hard-earned advances came with some unintended impacts. “Old Fashioned Fannie” followed in the footsteps of her grandfather–standing up for herself a…

Reverend Jean Thoroughood delves into a bygone era of midwifery, where compassion and community played vital roles. Amidst the struggles and triumphs, her narrative prompts a reflection on the progre…

Hey-We are glad you are here. We hope you are HERE in Virginia Beach to experience the stories where they happened, but we welcome you wherever your heart may be at the present moment. 

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