Explore and celebrate our own history with public historian and genealogist Debbie-Ann Paige and history teacher Diane Isaac as we discuss the enduring value and unique challenge of sharing Black history.

WHEN: February 24 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

WHERE: Zoom | Link to access virtual session will be sent in confirmation email upon registration

ADMISSION:  Free | Registration required here

Staten Island has an inspiring past of thriving African-American communities. The dominant narrative of African-American history focuses on the violence and injustice of slavery and systemic racism, or on the African-American stars who form the constellations of our pop culture.  Excavating local African-American history introduces us to the individuals and families who have contributed to the fabric of our own lives today, here in our own borough.

Debbie-Ann Paige is a public historian specializing in local African American history and a professional genealogist. She is co-president and a founding member of the Richard B. Dickenson Staten Island Chapter of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS), a newly appointed member of the New York City Council task force created to examine monuments, statues, public art and historical markers on city-owned property and Owner of PAIGE ONE ASSIST: A Legacy Research Company. Debbie-Ann facilitates public history forums focused on the historical perspectives of race and race relations.

Diane Isaac has taught history at Staten Island’s Curtis High School for 19 years. She has taught every social studies subject. Her commitment to community is strong. She has mentored numerous clubs, including the Feminist Club and the Black Awareness Club, and she leads annual student trips to The National Archives and the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian. Along with colleagues, she organized Curtis High School’s first all-day Black History event. The event featured prominent Black Staten Island community leaders and highlighted the achievements of students, both past and present. Ms Isaac also co-founded the Curtis Black and Brown Coalition to address issues of equity and inclusion, social emotional learning, and restorative justice. The Coalition has worked closely in partnership with the UFT, AFT, NYCID and The Schlechty Center.