Media Release

3:10 p.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The program "In the Shadow of Plantations" will premiere on Friday February 29, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. on Community 12.  It will be rebroadcast at 10:00 p.m.  The program will air multiple times during the month of March.  The show will also be available on the County's Video on Demand site for viewing at anytime.

The show, based on the research and writings of Alachua County independent researcher Dr. Patricia Hilliard-Nunn,  chronicles the history of enslaved African Americans in Alachua County.  Dr. Hilliard-Nunn hosts the program, which was produced by the Alachua County Manager's Communications Office.

In speaking of the program Dr. Hilliard-Nunn said, "African Americans have an old and rich history in Alachua County.  The  enslaved laborers represent just one aspect of that history, and it is important that we continue to uncover multiple aspects of their story because they were directly responsible for the growth and development of  Alachua County during the 1800s.  Their sweat, their blood and their tears are in the earth and their story should not be forgotten." 

Of her work on the television project she said, " I have appreciated having the opportunity to work with the Alachua County Communications Office to complete this important project. It is based on my "In  the Shadow of Plantations and Farms: Enslaved Laborors in Alachua County" power point  presentation which has been shared at a few locations.   A pamphlet with the same title will be completed in May of 2008."

For more information contact the Alachua County Communications Office at 352-374-5226.

                                                                                          -30-