We Built a Life: A palimpsest of Black worlds in Staten Island

• In Event: 30464 - Speculations

Abstract

This paper, based on dissertation work, seeks to do sociology differently. What if we can uncover new ways to understand the palimpsestic nature of place within Black communities? I take up the lessons taught by W.E.B Dubois, Ida B. Wells-Barnett and Black Feminist thinkers across disciplines to replant sociology’s roots in a rich, dark soil. We can employ a four pronged approach to the sociological study of place that considers structural deficits, cultural/community assets, affect and praxis, while not being mired by marginalization. I focus my attention on the Black communities in Staten Island, NY. These are the “forgotten” communities within a forgotten borough of New York City. In this space of silence in the City and within Staten Island, Black Staten Islanders are marked to map (un)belonging. However, we write a fuller narrative to (re)create palimpsests, worlds that challenge and disrupt the expected misconceptions. I sought to understand questions around homeplace, worldbuilding, mobility while hoping to serve as a guide for others to do sociological research differently, more creatively. I highlight the ethnography of 11 Black Staten Island residents (of 20+ years) through creative writing. This paper is anti-disciplinary, breaking from disciplinary norms. It serves as a critique and example. It stands as a witness and testimony to a portion of stories in Staten Island. There is a need to combat the liminal spaces we are put in, as stories and ideas about our supposed incompetence or deficiency roll down and gain renewed traction in law and heart. There is a need for a full, negating narrative in the field and beyond. That people of color exist outside of whiteness and falsehoods. That we will continue to write, draw, sing, pray the palimpsest as we have always done.

Author

• Shavaun Sutton, Northeastern University