Twin Sisters Acquire Former Plantation Where Their Ancestors Were Enslaved

In a powerful gesture aimed at reclaiming their family’s heritage and preserving historical memory, twin sisters Jo and Joy Banner have acquired the historic Woodland Plantation in LaPlace, Louisiana. This significant acquisition holds profound significance as it was once the site where their ancestors were enslaved and where the 1811 Slave Revolt, a seminal event in American history, took place.

Growing up on the banks of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, Jo and Joy Banner were deeply entrenched in the oral traditions of their family, which recounted the stories of their courageous ancestors who fought for freedom during the 1811 revolt. Inspired by these tales and driven by a profound sense of duty to honor their legacy, the Banner sisters embarked on a journey to acquire the Woodland Plantation.

Following extensive discussions with the former owner, Timothy Sheehan, the sisters concluded the acquisition of the plantation for $750,000 in January 2023. This acquisition not only serves to preserve their family’s history but also serves as a barrier against the encroachment of industrialization that threatens the environmental integrity of the region.

Through their nonprofit organization, The Descendants Project, Jo and Joy Banner seek to transform Woodland Plantation into a community center dedicated to genealogy research and discussions on environmental justice. This initiative underscores their commitment to protecting the health and heritage of Black communities in Louisiana’s River Parishes, an area already burdened by industrial pollution.

The historical significance of Woodland Plantation cannot be overstated. It was the starting point of the 1811 revolt, where enslaved individuals led by Charles Deslondes initiated a courageous uprising against the brutalities of slavery. The plantation, once synonymous with oppression, now stands as a symbol of resilience and hope, thanks to the efforts of the Banner sisters.

By acquiring this historic site, Jo and Joy Banner have not only reclaimed their family’s heritage but have also taken a stand against environmental injustice. The River Parishes region, often referred to as Cancer Alley due to its high concentration of industrial facilities, is already grappling with severe environmental degradation. The Banner sisters’ purchase effectively blocks plans for further industrialization, thereby safeguarding the health and well-being of local communities.

In addition to preserving history and protecting the environment, the Banner sisters aim to create a welcoming space where Black individuals can connect with their roots, explore their ancestry, and engage in discussions about pressing environmental issues. Through their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to justice, Jo and Joy Banner are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future, one where the voices of the oppressed are heard, and their stories are honored for generations to come.

Hephzibah Akinwale, a 10-year-old Black girl hailing from the United Kingdom, has etched her name in literary history by breaking the world record for the longest fiction book for children. Her remarkable novel, “Chronicles of The Time Keepers: Whisked Away,” spans an impressive 58,000 words, cementing her status as a prodigious young author.

In this captivating middle-grade fiction adventure, Hephzibah assumes the role of the protagonist, delving into a world of enigmatic dreams that blur the lines between reality and fantasy, as reported by Shine My Crown.

Currently a student at Little Thetford C of E Primary School in East Cambridgeshire, England, Hephzibah’s literary feat surpasses that of the previous record holder, 11-year-old Manikya Sanghi, whose acclaimed work “Wizard of Sansanadia” boasted 44,000 words.

Beyond merely setting records, Hephzibah’s achievements hold the promise of igniting a creative spark in children worldwide, believes her mother, Chika. Her remarkable talents have already earned her recognition, securing her a place among the top 20 young individuals chosen to partake in East Cambridgeshire District Council’s festivities commemorating the Coronation of King Charles III. Click here to continue reading about Hephzibah.

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