The Charleston Middle Passage Ancestor Remembrance ceremony wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of so many. Our deepest gratitude goes to all who participated, from the CHS ASALH Remembrance Committee members for the selfless contributions of their time and resources, to Deninufay Drum & Dance Company whose performance resonated through our hearts, to Yoruba Priestess Osun Wonuola EfunLayo aka “Mama Pearl” who guided us in a sacred ritual of remembrance.

Honor and respect to our guest speaker, Trident Technical College History Instructor Donald West (CHS ASALH Vice President), for sharing his knowledge and wisdom, to Gullah Griot Giovanni Richardson for her passionate words at the Atlantic waters, and to photographer and videographer Brenda Peart for capturing this important occasion. We give thanks to brother Tyrone Collins (CHS ASALH President) for his beautiful tribute to late CHS ASALH member Ruth Rambo, and Dr. Bernard Powers (CHS ASALH former President) and the College of Charleston’s Center for the Study of Slavery in Charleston (CSSC) for their invaluable sponsorship.

Finally, we extend our appreciation to all attendees of this year’s ceremony. We were grateful for a large turnout, including many who faithfully attend each year and a warm welcome to our new attendees. May we continue to honor the Ancestor’s memory and carry forward the lessons learned. We look forward to seeing you all next year, June 14, 2025!

Ceremony Coordinated By:
The Charleston REMEMBRANCE Committee of the Charleston Chapter of ASALH
Chairman Jerome Harris (Immediate Past President of CHS ASALH), Dena Davis (CHS ASALH Historian), Talim Lessane, Jonathan Richardson, and Quanza Washington (CHS ASALH Corresponding Secretary). In Memoriam Dr. Ade Ajani Ofunniyin.

Pictures and videos of this year’s ceremony:

Educational Presentation by History Instructor Donald West: “Forced Migration”