Harassment and Sexual Assault of African American Historical Interpreters

For survivor support:
www.rainn.org/after-sexual-as...
/ notyourmommashistory
Website- NotYourMommasHistory.com
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Twitter- @MommasHistory
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[@rosiehoy4736]

If anyone says "this has never happened before" either they are lying or you are the first brave enough to speak out.

[@rosiehoy4736]

Ann C that's true too.

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

Well said

[@boyinblue.]

As a sexual abuse survivor I feel so disgusted, I wish I could have helped her. This type of stuff is why I can’t trust people, my family always calls into question my stories of what happened to me, and my mother and grandmother even make excuses for my abusers. I just hate that she wasn't listened to, it makes me so angry.

[@soxpeewee]

Or they're in shock

[@missfortune3123]

You know that they didn't just rape the women right?...

[@grayalien48]

"But they let us pay to whip the slaves so..." sir this isn't a theme park, you shouldn't be ENJOYING this. You shouldn't be excited to pay so you can whip slaves and harass women, you're supposed to be learning and understanding the past--

[@Exiria]

Its so crazy, the country intentionally does a bad job teaching empathy about all of this. Robs so many of their humanity

[@lynnsintention5722]

I am black and I would just laugh at such a remark...or roll play it off and tell them" Well you'd better discuss the price with Massa"! LOL But everyone is different and not all have the same dark humor as I do

[@nomisunrider6472]

Well as long as we're going for historical accuracy, she should be allowed to reenact a revolt and set him on fire. He wants to live in the past, he can burn with it.

[@artalcoolique3341]

@@nomisunrider6472 haiiiiiti timeeee

[@PopLife-hb3ks]

@@lynnsintention5722 ?????????🤦🏾‍♀️🙇🏾‍♀️

[@Izzy_NYC]

"They let us pay to shoot the guns, can we pay to whip the slaves" that bothered me soooo F***ING much!!!

[@englishlanguagewithnina5965]

That is so hideous that they say that. I feel like that should be punished as harassment. Jesus.

[@alexandraaaron9705]

My Stomach FLIPPED ... 👿

[@elisadinsmore231]

I would have gone to jail, had I been there and heard someone say such a thing. My jaw was on the floor, and my blood pressure through the roof, this entire video. I cannot even IMAGINE. I watched one of her videos that shows her being a ladies maid to a white woman... I couldn't finish it. It made me sick to my stomach, thinking of what it was doing to this women psychologically, reenacting such a horrifying part of the black communities experience during this time. I don't know how she stomachs doing it... I know it needs to be told, but Jesus... how do you not destroy yourself in the telling - and the behavior you're subjected to? 💔

[@spunstricken9065]

@@elisadinsmore231 Your response is a testament to the gravity of the service she is doing for the Nation’s posterity and the Black community. We need to see and remember.I live in Germany and as an American, I can see the generational trauma the events of WW2 had on the psyche of the German people, as the residual affects of trauma are passed down to the next generations through word and action from parent to child. Many White Americans are suffering in this way. Now imagine the trauma of German Jews and Black Americans. Remembering to understand is the way to heal and unless all sides heal, the wound will always fester. You are an agent of such healing. Kind Regards

[@moneybags999]

@@elisadinsmore231 I just said the same thing in another post. There's no way in hell I could pretend to be a slave. Not even for a good salary. I would be too damaged emotionally, mentally, spiritually, etc...I have no idea of how she could continue doing this, especially after these experiences & after not getting support from management. I'm naturally a very calm mild mannered person but I would have been on the evening news that night.

[@hermitlifeinthemountainsub9493]

The same happened to my neighbor who is Creole. She worked with the USPS. A man she worked with many years joked how he loved her bubble butt and he grabbed it. She had a nervous breakdown and had to be hospitalized for a few weeks. Nobody ever touched her there but her husband. She sued. She won. I am sorry this happened to you.

[@eNosArmory]

I am white, and I am a man, I am a reenactor, I formerly worked with the National Park Service as an historical interpreter at Gettysburg and Independence Hall. I cannot even begin to relate to your experience as a black woman in historical interpretation. I am grateful for your contribution and strength. I am appalled by the people you have encountered. Your service to history is greater than mine, and I encourage you to continue to share your experience so those of us who don't see this side of our culture can learn. You are using history to focus change on our future... that is something I am not strong enough to do... you have a platform... we are here for you... please keep sharing with us.

[@lendmeyourear3546]

Dynamic Prepper, Very well said.

[@SobrietyandSolace]

God bless you for being such a wonderful ally- it is appreciated

[@mitzithompson6585]

Thank u for your kind words . It means so much.. God bless🙏🏾

[@kagitsune]

I think you are the one anti-racist self-described prepper I have ever seen.

[@blackcitroenlove]

@@kagitsune there are a lot of us, mostly due to having been through a disaster. It's just that we're not loud like the right wingers are.

[@candicecrawford2996]

“A lot of time you just freeze” absolutely the truth.

[@valeciaalex4378]

And then beat yourself up about it mentally for years with feelings of guilt for all the words you wish you said.

[@Perfectlyradiant_]

Don’t beat yourself up about it. I’ve frozen in a lot of situations where I should have spoken up. We go through life thinking people have respect for our boundaries. And we are shocked when someone purposefully stomps on them.

[@getreadynow647]

It's sad but I've found myself in situations where I froze. So now I find expecting the worse and hoping for the best will help you stay on guard at all times in any situation.

[@KatharineOsborne]

Yup, this is super common. Even if you think on an intellectual level ‘oh I’ll fight back/say something’ when it actually comes to it you are at a loss (brain is beachballing)

[@BlueHazyDreams]

Many of us think we know how we will react to sexual assault when it hasn't happened to us. I also tend to freeze instead of fight or flight, whether it's watching someone hit my car unable to move to honk or taking 8 years to realize something I experienced was rape, because I froze and did not say no or fight back. I now have not one question or judgment as to how others react in the face of such world-shaking circumstances. Those depictions in movies & TV do nothing to prepare you for what you might actually go through; in fact they probably are part of the problem, predisposing us to this image of a woman fighting for her life against a strange man, when you might actually be frozen as an acquaintance, friend, or even lover oversteps your boundaries.

[@carola-lifeinparis]

Seriously? Putting up a sign was their solution? As if people who disrespect your boundaries will listen to signs. aaargh

[@kellyalves756]

Why tf are they letting people perform closing procedures alone, anyway?

[@bellasmom2013]

That is disgraceful. There should be a panic button that interpreters can press to alert security. There should also be hidden cameras and a notice to people when they enter the exhibit that they are being filmed.

[@davidawilliams252]

that's what I am wondering. we have that in the hospital where I work. This is unacceptable. I want to know who or what to write to and complain. And this industry needs to be...unfortunately...regulated.

[@samaraisnt]

The problem is she WAS security.

[@hadast3806]

@@davidawilliams252 oh and I’ve heard what nurses have to go through with some nasty patients trying to cop a feel on them. Cameras are needed

[@ReleaseTheQuackers]

Native American women at pow wows and other gatherings where we wear our regalia, suffer much abuse as well. I can not tell you how many times I have been called S**AW and been sexually harassed by white men while in my regalia. People in general treat us like we are a hands on exhibit touching our hair, clothing and ornaments. It got so bad a few years ago that I stopped going to Native American events. I am sad that I can not connect with other Native Americans and feel the drums, but I feel like my safety is in danger when I am there.

[@intricatelytangled]

I am so sorry that happened to you. I hope you get the courage to resume going to those gatherings.

[@Kattaccino]

Oh my god, that's horrific. To think that Indigenous folks are gracious enough to open pow wows up to the larger community only to be treated like that... I'm so sorry. I hope you are able to safely and fully connect with your heritage and fellow Natives again soon 💔

[@dre9986]

🙏🏽

[@daydream324]

Chelle P, thank you! This is another thing that white supremacists have kept us from knowing about. This is the first time that I ever heard of this happening to Native Americans. But I'm sure that all those people who enjoy harassing and abusing you and others are "good Christians" who just want to keep "America for the Americans". Here's an idea---why don't they go back to Europe where they came from??!!

[@tammi67able]

Im sorry bless you, they always got to be touching your hair and other stuff without permission touchy touchy touchy

[@herbcutler3194]

Attends historical reenactment *history repeats itself*

[@artisticagi]

It’s like they think the past really rewinded and they can get away with that shit.

[@shortforsophie]

Spice Gyal Lili well... they kinda *did* get away with that shit. The only repercussions they suffered is that someone they traumatized and victimized told them to stop. It sounds like they weren’t even told they could no longer participate in the tour, or politely escorted off the site. How is that not “getting away with that shit?” And to be clear, the onus is never on the person being assaulted to protect themselves, that’s not what I’m saying. The employer on the other hand...

[@thizizliz]

@@shortforsophie Absolutely on target 100%. What a perfect post.

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

@@artisticagi Well said 👏

[@melodieperkins7080]

The abuse of Women of African descent still exists.

[@isamidnight]

This instills a burning rage in me and makes me wanna castrate those jerks. I'm so sorry this happened to you. You should feel safe at your job.

[@BaladyDogs]

Same. Ditto.

[@Nina.92]

Agree 😔😔

[@aussieatheist960]

Slice and dice!!!

[@joy7218]

I dealt with harassment in the past just bc I'm gay, sometimes it can blow up in a bad way. Where I'm arguing with them and then get sexually assault.

[@buckeyedav1]

Those were my exact words "a burning rage" spot on! Anna In Ohio

[@milescumminski8077]

Why did they not believe you and install cameras right away? It makes me so angry. I am a man who has been sexually assaulted by another man. I also froze, because I was in total shock. I had no idea what to do. Thank goodness someone else came in the room, but as a openly gay man, this was not the last time this happened. I am so sorry you had to experience what you did. It is totally unacceptable!

[@playme129]

We women often don't report encounters like this because we are afraid we won't be believe d. I went to one manager to report being touched by a co-worker and was told, this is a serious charge, you should think it over first. As if I hadn't already given it

[@mslettucebfrank]

The same thing happened to me. And the hr person would not accept my Complaint because she “knew” the guy, and, of course, he would never do what I was describing.

[@dragonbowlsupper]

Happened to me too. HR told me to let the guy apologize because he was "really really sorry" about what he did and just leave it at that. I had to go to his manager who luckily was more understanding and actually did the right thing and fired the guy.

[@thizizliz]

@@dragonbowlsupper Like the polo player who raped the unconscious girl in California - it's all about protecting the attacker!!!!

[@reneshau.3369]

I’m sorry that you ladies went through this . No woman deserves this !!! No one!! I’m praying that you all are ok and doing better. I know each day is a journey but I am praying for everyone’s healing. 🥺❤️🙏

[@Highlikeheaven89]

@@mslettucebfrank That pisses me off so much - people "know" them and "they would never do something like that!" .... You dont always know people that well. Abusers are usually very charming to others. Im so sorry that happened to you.

[@kikikareema5912]

Wow, I never knew this was happening to interpreters.

[@juniasaints]

@John Blackburn ??? Mammy is spelled correctly. It refers to the trope about black women being happy caretakers for white children. You're probably not even worth replying to, but get your straw man argument and shove it.

[@Skye_Writer]

@@juniasaints exactly. I don't believe for a second he doesn't know what a Mammy was. He's just trolling.

[@amandafresard4861]

Im so sorry that you went through this. I really liked what you said about the importance of not only asking people what they need, but giving them time to figure out what that is. I just started watching your videos today and I’m learning a lot. Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights. And you have a great laugh 😆

[@oliviablackburn3907]

I had a feeling they were but hoped I was wrong until this video. 😪

[@matthewmead2374]

I dont get it. I dont get how people can be such scumbags. Every day I hear something that makes me hate people a little bit more. So actually I do get it. People suck. So many people have no problem what so ever traumatizing and injuring others to satisfy their own sick desires. I look at my dogs and wonder what the world would be like if they evolved to be the dominant species on this planet. Those entitled and racist people committing these offenses are an embarrassment to my race and to the human population. Probably "christians". Why is it hard to not blatantly and grossly violate someone's boundaries or to not commit assault. Even if you are a horrible racist in your head, can you not be civil and polite towards others? I hate people yet I still manage to go through the day treating people with respect and dignity and I keep my fucking hands to myself and have no trouble avoiding saying offensive things.

[@dutchik5107]

Why the hell would someone go to a place like that to "whip the slaves."

[@julietfischer5056]

We're separated from this by a couple of generations. It looks like role-play. And some people are just assholes.

[@cryptbeast3222]

Edgelords probably.

[@moneybags999]

@@julietfischer5056 Exactly. People don't realize that this is still "recent" history & that the mentality of those old Southerns (slave owners or not) has been passed to through the generations & is very much alive today. @Dutchik That's why people would want to go to a place like that to whip slaves. They still see black people as "slaves" & inferior to them. They grew up hearing stories about the good ol' days where slaves had their "proper" place on the plantation while whites lived in comfort and status in their own society. This is part of that "Southern Heritage" that so many go on about and fight so hard to preserve. Some of them are much better at not saying the quiet parts out loud unlike the guy he openly expressed the desire to pay to whip slaves. When blacks got their freedom, we were released into their society. Many of them still haven't quite grasped that idea that we are human beings and deserve to be part of society, too, and many are clinging hard to the past. Going to a place like this & harassing the black re-enactors clearly does something for them. They know they can't say & do these things in regular everyday situations but feel that they can get away with it here.

[@lisablack8892]

Because this is America this where it actually occurred . Just like acting out the civil war go figure.

[@mrjones2721]

Seriously. That’s Westworld-level thinking.

[@glittery_cucumber]

Sometimes I'm shocked at how naive I can still be. I genuinely believed people who went to historic sites were generally there to learn and had lots of respect for the interpreters. It just never occurred to me that people could be assholes about it.

[@lynnsintention5722]

There are idiots in every profession that you have to deal with....Female bartenders and waitresses get that too from men I don't think it is particular to reinactment

[@torieleesims3605]

@@lynnsintention5722 I’m sure in this particular setting, these people are acting this way particular to the reenactment. They probably get off on it as much as they can.

[@birdyfeederz7940]

I can see maybe asking kind of inappropriate historical questions like "how did they have sex, if the whole family lived in the same room?", But anything aimed at the specific person is just beyond the pale

[@relsba]

I don’t understand it. My husband and I always enjoyed these tours. It never occurred to us that others were so evil. From now on, I will inquire about cameras and security for the workers.

[@moneybags999]

"I genuinely believed people who went to historic sites were generally there to learn and had lots of respect for the interpreters." I'm in my 40s & was just as naive as you. Common sense (or so I thought) would tell you that a person who would want to go to an historic site like this, museums, etc...was there to learn something about history.

[@sc0ttishlass]

It seems that these occurances seem to be the norm rather than the exception. I have worked at European historic museum sites back in the 1990s and early 2000s, usually portraying a working woman, like a washer woman or some tradeswoman. Kids don't have the same kind of sense of boundaries adults should usually have, so I did not mind them touching my clothes or getting too close. However, ppl cannot imagine how many times adult visitors (both male and female) were intrusive. Beginning from lifting aprons/skirts to the sexual harrassment you described (some guy once grabbed my fichu and into my stays, just for shit and giggles as he described it. I came home to discover bruises on my breasts that night). Most of the time both management as well as fellow interpretors would even say stuff like 'You are imagining things' or 'you are exaggerating'. Interpretors who portrayed the lower classes were more often than not subjugated to these kind of happenings while ppl still 'respected' the upper class actors who also always went about in mixed groups of male and female. So yes I know exactly what you are talking about in this regard, but also to experience racism on top of it ... that can break someone. In my case it was 'just' the harrassment, but still it makes me wonder how ppl were raised and what kind of ethics they learned from society as well as their parents. I know the feeling of feeling frozen for a moment where your mind is going: WTF That is NOT happening right now, is it? to the physical feeling of nausea, and later anger. Please continue to work in a field you so obviously love, and thank you for putting awareness on a much neglected situation that most times than not gets hushed up and ignored.

[@lakithagoss897]

Groping can be considered sexual assault. Pressing charges against perpetrators is a possible solution to deter this behavior.

[@kagitsune]

@@lakithagoss897 Unfortunately no. Most people who do press charges are dragged through possible years of humiliation and reliving the incident(s), being gaslit at every turn, being blacklisted in their careers, etc. :/

[@ladybluelotus]

@msc14111990 Unfortunately, that would mean not working anywhere. The real solution is for people to behave responsible and keep their damn hands to themselves. Didn't we learn this in kindergarten?!

[@hj6507]

@msc14111990 the career isn't degrading, the way the workers are treated is. So it's not the workers or the career that needs to change. Its the management, and the idiotic assholes who have no decency or brain cells to determine their behavior is highly inappropriate

[@kagitsune]

@@ladybluelotus Yep, anyone who works in restaurant, retail, grocery, call centers, Healthcare, or massage/spa service deals with the same stuff. Even a lot of office workers, from fellow employees or superiors.

[@krobinson7189]

Victim blaming is never OK. Thank you for speaking up for others.

[@TanyaQueen182]

As a white woman in America, I'm very thankful for your videos. I've learned SO much. I firmly believe that if we do not learn about our past, we're doomed to repeat it. Your videos should be shown in schools around America in my opinion. I also just want to say thank you for all the time you put into these videos, and that you discuss the hard topics on top of hard topics for some of us to talk about. So that's my Thank you.

[@rberry4288]

It is very clear that these videos are tamed down for a general audience. Still the reenactments are very strong even if a "decaf" version. This video in particular was not a reenactment. That someone would sexually assault a staff member of an educational facility, dressed as an enslaved woman,... really, what do you say to that?

[@artapothecary53]

Freezing is how many people react. Scenarios such as this, people often imagine how they would respond. But it’s rarely how it plays out. That’s part of the reason people don’t believe other people’s accounts. They imagine the way they would respond and expect the same from others.

[@nomisunrider6472]

Exactly. They always imagine that they would do something, but you never know what'll happen when adrenaline and your instincts take over. People can't control how they react in these situations and shouldn't be judged for it.

[@dasnixblix4846]

And there are many people as well who still believe that "allowing" people to let them harm you (by freezing, by not objecting or by doing what they want you to do) because you are scared is the same as consent. A "permission" is not consensual, if it's given out of fear or inability to object.

[@ennanitsua]

One or two times a WEEK!? WHAT!? That is completely unacceptable 😡 I'm so sorry that this happened to you, and I'm so sorry that your coworkers doubted and gaslit you and I'm so, so sorry that your managers didn't support you. You deserve so much better, as do all black interpreters. As patrons of historical sites, how can we do better to help interpreters, from your perspective? Are there people we can write to? Organizations we can contribute to that help black interpreters?

[@ambriaashley3383]

Yes! I want to know how to help. Perhaps writing letters to these different historical societies, or incessantly Tweeting & *demanding* they consider the safety of their WOC & black female employees, is a start.

[@rach2111]

I think when you witness it you say something and get involved. I'm gonna guess a lot of these perverts will turn tail and run once they know they've been seen, then you report it to management or call the police yourself. this way management can't pretend it isn't happening.

[@heinuchung8680]

Happens more than you think. People sort of think of the people working in these places as props like a doll not real.

[@davidawilliams252]

I want to know who or what we can write to make these people accountable. No one, no one, no one is above the law. You are supposed to call the police or security as soon as possible. Let us know who or what to write to. Unacceptable.

[@Rachel-fi4sc]

Absolutely! If there's any way we can help you, please let us know. You deserve so much better.

[@Elizabeth-po1bv]

Yeah I totally understand what you’re saying here. Though I’m not POC I am a woman who works as an interpreter and we get harassed daily. And my POC coworkers ABSOLUTELY have it worse. The problem is that we as a unit often ignore it and dismiss it as “part of the job” Thank you so much for bringing attention to this! Being a historical interpreter and also being a woman and poc is so much more difficult than the experience of a white man. POC need more support in the field from higher ups.

[@capucnechaussonpassion14]

It's just... Unbelievable... How can this still be so common in 2o20 and how can jour hierarchy do nothing about it (like actually make sure that you don't end up in those situations AT ALL and punishing and calling out the clients (men) that DARE to do this wow how can you be such a trash bag it's beyond

[@jonathanxavier2026]

Being a poc is much harder than being a white woman as well.

[@anna-mariadavis5914]

Jonathan Xavier thank u for acknowledging that sir💞

[@Doc_McStuffins]

She wasn't talking about being a POC or being a woman. She was talking about her experience as a _black woman_. Whenever black women tell their stories, white women are so quick to say, this happens to us too. But she says in the video that she reported to coworkers and superiors what was happening to her and she was basically called a liar because it wasn't happening to anyone else except other black interpreters. All women aren't treated the same and POC isn't a term anybody should use. East Asians aren't treated like black people. Non white Hispanics don't ride for black people either. There's no POC coalition so let's not group us like we have the same experiences.

[@KC_604]

Jonathan Xavier what is poc? Everyone seems to know what it means but nobody is saying what the acronym stands for ?

[@loralogue]

On top of the racism and sexism, I think it’s also important to factor in the systemic mistreatment of workers. Coming from an event management perspective, I want to know why there isn’t better lighting, a second person on security to ensure staff can’t get cornered alone, an induction for guests which includes specific rules and restrictions regarding conduct, a silent alarm that can be used by staff to summon assistance without risking further endangerment, specific security who have the training and ability to remove hostile guests, security cameras so victims have supporting evidence, or any number of other measures that could help prevent assaults or at the very least ensure victims aren’t ignored. Protections for workers are insufficient at best and there are more people than there are jobs. If it’s cheaper and easier to just ignore or replace an employee who complains than to actually address the problems, a lot of business are going to do exactly that.

[@haileymaurer122]

Agreed- management does not want to accept responsibility for their workers as it's an "inconvenience"

[@chrisester2910]

"I never called security..." because this kind of horrible behavior is so normalized in our culture. I am so sorry that this happened to you. No person should be subjected to that kind of treatment and anyone should be supported and believed, not blamed.

[@jodeneantonson985]

First of all, I'm sorry you experienced this. It's reprehensible! I went into the military in 1974. I experienced sexual harassment before it had a name. I'm white, but I do understand what you went through as a woman. NO ONE should have to experience this, especially when working at a job they love. How your complaint was handled is exactly how the military handled mine. NO ONE has the right to make you feel like an object, either by what they say or do! I support your decisions and actions regarding this issue. I'm 65 years old and love history. I respect re-enacters for their knowledge and their leadership in helping me to learn and understand. You can bet that if I had witnessed what happened to you, I'd be speaking out. Well, that would be after you bail me out of jail for kicking those pervs' behinds! I'm a Mama and a Grandma and won't stand for that junk!

[@bigvalley4987]

❤️Huuuummm Go my Sistah! Grandma, Woman, Mee Maw kick the hinder☑️

[@rdred8693]

As a women, we all have a universal experience of this garbage. We need to have each other's backs.

[@hadast3806]

What is it about people in authority trying to protect the organization image rather than help victims. They KNOW the complainer is telling the truth they just do t seem to want to deal with it. Look at the way religious organizations try to cover up child abuse instead of helping them? It’s astonishing!

[@eiloen]

Without African American interpreters at these sites it's far too easy to forget the other side of what life was really like in those times.

[@Theturtleowl]

I spoke with an interpreter in London once and she asked me to keep talking to her for a bit, which I thought was wonderful because we had a nice conversation. She later told me she did not want to be confronted by a large group of rowdy tourists that had just entered. Horrible to hear that you have such negative things happen to you.

[@rmerritte]

My daughter worked at the same place and told me of these disrespects. She no longer works there. I know one thing, I would have phucked up anyone who felt the need to touch or speak out of line to the actors in this day and time. Stay Strong.

[@Kap3lka]

Yeah, it couldn't have been me. This is not a job I could ever do. You touch me...I touch you! And I guarantee you won't enjoy it! Kudos to your daughter and the lady in this video

[@juliec3819]

I only clicked like because I'm glad you got your message out. Please continue to get this message out - sexual harassment (or any harassment) is NOT okay at any place at any time.

[@beccastell6439]

Like DynamicPrepper I'm a white re-enactor but in the UK. I have been a re-enactor since I was 16 and both as a woman and a member of multiple minorities, I want to thank you for this speaking up. The attacks that go on absolutely have to stop. In the UK we have had several successful rape prosecutions for incidents at events. My own attempts to get change and justice and speak up in my group only resulted in gaslighting, pushback and denial. To witness abuse and be silenced, to suffer it and know our partners have too and for this to come from inside the groups under the excuse of " that is how it was" be that their excuse for acting like it is 1642 or1982.... The silencing of what happens at the hands if our colleagues and fellow re enactors must also stop!

[@hadast3806]

I can’t believe what I just read. Did you say rape prosecutions at these events???????

[@thaloblue]

Except that it WAS NOT how it was. (I know you know that Im just saying) That’s rape propaganda disseminated by pigs disguised as men. You didn’t make EYE CONTACT with women you didn’t know. The boundaries were harsher the further back in history we go.

[@nobody8328]

Really? A sign saying "Please don't fondle the Staff"? I'm sure that was helpful. 😒

[@julietfischer5056]

For those who were merely thoughtless, it probably worked. What we should be doing is teaching our children to respect boundaries and not treat employees like objects -- and speak up when we see it happen.

[@kittyfantastic7681]

I dont like the idea of black people working like this. It makes me very uncomfortable. I often get asked by friends, jobs to be a "Fortune Teller" for their parties when they find out I am Roma. Or want me to wear my cultural clothing for them, dance for them. I dont know. You are very brave. I would NEVER work that job. I would NEVER go to a Plantation tour. But I would happily help you pull one down board by board if you would like. YOU are special and needed in this world. YOU are more important than this job.

[@aoibheannromaqueen]

I cannot tell you how hard this hit home. I am so sick of people making fortune teller jokes at me. Asking if I can read their palms. I could never do what this amazing woman does

[@vpombovp]

I guess some people were absent from school when they taught Class and Tact. Please remind fools who request stereotypical actions from you that RESPECT IS NOY JUST AN ARETHA FRANKLIN SONG!!! ✊🏽

[@tinyflyingdragons9432]

I have had people ask me money advice just because I'm Jewish, or say that I should take up certain jobs

[@elainelouve]

Thank you for sharing your experiences! That's absolutely disgusting behavior on their side. I knew that roma face horrible amounts of racism, but never knew it included these stereotypes. I have no idea whether it's happening in my country (I have known some roma, but not as intimately as to discuss personal experiences), but now I'm aware of this issue. Hopefully others will also be.

[@tink6225]

ew. very weird that people still do that

[@Ruenig]

I'm a white female reenactor. I'm kinda used to the rare person who kinda thinks that I, as a person, am a display - to be touched, turned over, and picked at. That never bothers me but I have NEVER experienced what you have and I think it's appalling that you went through this. I'm so incredibly sorry that people have treated you this way, and that it persists. I'm so glad to hear that you continue to do this valuable job, and hope that ears start to open and support starts to flow for you!

[@lynnsintention5722]

I would just roll play it off with some in character rebuff....and if I had to break role they would know that they were out of linevery quickla (I am also a person of color) But some people are more sensative than others

[@julietfischer5056]

@Falhawk73 - Just be nice and polite. Don't push or ask lots of personal questions. Respect personal space. Stop if you see that it's making her uncomfortable.

[@moneybags999]

@Falhawk73 Can you not tell the difference between sexual harassment & having a friendly conversation? When a man cannot tell the difference between these 2 things, it's a major red flag.

[@moneybags999]

@Falhawk73 Re-read the last sentence of your post. You are asking how can a man talk to a woman so that she doesn't feel like she's being sexually harassed. Are you trying to pick up someone or are you just wanting to have a simple, normal, short friendly conversation that you could literally have with any person? I remember with the Me Too movement a few years ago, lots of men were saying things like, "Well, I guess I won't be talking to women any more because I don't wanna be accused of sexual harassment." Your question sounds like a more polite version of that. There are plenty of examples of sexual harassment out there. Just don't do those things. Do you not know how to flirt or have a conversation with a woman without it veering off into sexual territory? Or, are you naturally a touchy-feely person who has trouble sensing other people's boundaries? Do you inadvertently stare at women's body parts when talking to them? If you are not doing these things, you should be fine.

[@elenachristian9860]

@Falhawk73 Dont.

[@TheVelvetLoungeLife]

What's needed are cameras, prosecution and valid human resources with a GOOD vs. trash HR staff that actually do the hard parts of their jobs. So sad, that happened to you sister. Be well and stay safe ✨🦋✨.

[@rdred8693]

HR is there to protect the company, not the workers, sadly. Unions would provide better protection.

[@sy-rahnefertari4698]

Wow! This doesn’t surprise me at all. I have observed proud patrons in Williamsburg reliving the “good ole” days. Riding in a horse and buggy with yankee hats on. I have always wondered about the mentality and true nature of people that think that this a vacation. I see our beautiful sisters and brothers singing and re-enacting knowing the pain that our ancestors went through. The reality is that not only have black women been sexually assaulted throughout history(definitely during enslavement) but, black men and children as well.

[@tbella5186]

I lived near, and worked in CW, and yes that mentality is everywhere there. I always thought that the actual reenacters had the hardest jobs.

[@Rosalie1996]

At least they are wearing Northern hats…. I grew up in Mississippi and the glorification of the old South is something you wouldn’t begin to fathom. I didn’t realize how problematic going to the old Mississippi plantations when I was a teenager and not really thinking of them for what they were. Going into a plantation, you should think of them as more of a gilded prison than a just a beautiful historic home. I was just struck by the beauty of the place and architecture and furniture and loved going there and imagining how I might have lived there in the past. I will say that unlike my peers I always had a questioning mind though and did think about the enslaved and never really wanted to live in that period of history because of it. At one particular home in Natchez, MS, I asked about the slaves and noted that the white woman in a hoop skirt giving the tour wasn’t answering my questions. But at Longwood, there was a portrait of a black man on the wall. The tour guide said the portrait was painted before the Civil war but that the man had lived with his former mistress after the Civil War and her husband died. I asked if they were together and again the tour guide wouldn’t give me a straight answer, but it seemed like that may have been the case. I’d love to hear Cheney talk about formerly enslaved people who decided to stay after they were freed. It’s a perspective we don’t hear much on. I’m very interested in Fredrick’s story for instances which I found more of below. This is what I found on the portrait: you can find it by Googling Longwood Plantation Portraits. “Did you know there are only two known portraits of enslaved men or women in antebellum Mississippi? One of those portraits resides in Natchez at Longwood. Frederick, pictured here in a starched white shirt, vermilion vest, and black coat and bow tie, worked as a manservant at Laurel Hill Plantation and Winter Quarters, residences of Haller and Julia Nutt. This likeness was taken in the early 1840s by Charles R. Parker (1799-1848/9), a London-trained artist who traveled through the American South working as an itinerant portraitist in the first half of the 19th century. Longwood is open daily for tours, and tickets can be purchased at Natchez Pilgrimage Tours at 640 S. Canal St.”

[@ReptilianTeaDrinker]

@@Rosalie1996 Bit sus how the tour guide at Nanchez, MS wouldn't answer the question. Like, did they truly not know or just couldn't be bothered? Surely if they're a tour guide they should know about everything that happened there, right?

[@thaloblue]

Sometimes they were even forced into incestuous relations with each other if the master wanted more slaves and there wasn’t anyone on the plantation that wasnt related.

[@sy-rahnefertari4698]

Yes, I live in a state where there were breeding grounds that forced parents and children as well as siblings to create the ultimate “super slaves”. Sick , Sick, Sick! The reverberations are still being felt. Jamaica was also home to large breeding farms. It’s no wonder horse racing and breeding is so popular on the island. It’s also why the music and men are so hypermasculine and hyper-sexual. There is often a disconnect from emotion when it comes to intercourse. Post traumatic slave syndrome as Dr. Degruy describes it.

[@bookbunny9]

To that one manager, whether or not this has happened before is irrelevant! First of all, it has likely happened before; second of all, it is happening now and needs to be addressed!! Thank you for speaking up about this.

[@happyzombiikitti]

I’m so so sorry this happened to you. I am a woman of color with native/indigenous decent, and it often feels like our bodies are not ours. I am happy I found this channel, and i will continue to support the knowledge you are showing us.

[@moneybags999]

Love this user name!! Lol

[@happyzombiikitti]

@@moneybags999 thank you! It’s one of ny favorite films

[@Kathryn_60]

I saw a video of you participating in a demonstration of 18th hair and wanted to see more of your stylings. To my mind what you experienced was criminal and that the managers should understand that they are tolerating sexual assault on their site. This is no different than any other work place. It is disturbing to me that they would treat you less than anyone else who was being assaulted or harassed. There by reinforcing the historical situation you were portraying. I am so sorry this happened to you and others. I hope that you have the support you need. Thank you for informing the public.

[@keyofallworlds7549]

I’ve been assaulted by people I dated and I would freeze every time and I felt so guilty about it cause I didn’t fight back or say something right away.. I would feel so lost and confused and thought it was my fault. Even though the situations are different and I’m upset this happened to you, I feel validated to know I’m not the only one who has the same “response” to things like this

[@FiveMCity]

I would set up a sting, with cameras, and just embarrass every offender on live stream.

[@dcundeniable7804]

Are there cameras on site? Perhaps audio and visual available so there is guest accountability.

[@ig-nat-ius1891]

She mentioned it happening in a dark hallway.

[@pamelamccollam4657]

Seriously!! They have a security team, they likely have surveillance in some parts of the site (like where the "valuables" are exhibited, and note the horrible irony of protecting things but not people). There is no reason why they can't light the dark spots and put in cameras.

[@AlabasterClay]

I've been reading through hoping to find someone with a solution to the problem. And the solution can't be that she gets to work in pairs so that the jerks are afraid of attacking her because of a witness. Because then she costs the employer twice as much for her security runs. It has to be a solution that applies to all employees. Light up the halls and put in cameras with audio is a good idea.

[@rachmuffins7]

@@AlabasterClay The company SHOULD pay twice as much to keep employees safe. If they need a more cost-effective way, fine. But it's absolutely worth it not to have your employees sexually assaulted constantly!

[@Queenvoney]

I am also an interpreter. I do this with my cousin and what you say is true. I have been reenacting for more than 10 years now and have had multiple things happen. I experienced little aggressions through things people say, no one ever touched me because there is not opportunity for that in the way we do it. So sorry you experienced that and glad you got support for it. But over all I have had many more fabulous and awesome times to teach people about history. I commend you for speaking out and for the work you do. Thank you and I look forward to your videos.

[@missylee3022]

I'm a freezer in these situations too. It's a perfectly natural response to threat 💜

[@mimimaitri1]

I’m crying just listening to you describe this abuse. I cannot imagine how hard it was to experience, never mind to speak out and share it with coworkers and employers who then blamed/shamed you.

[@elewysoffinchingefeld3066]

Sexual harassment in the work place happens so often, especially when the aggressors have that sense of freedom that they're not going to get caught and they're never going to see you again. I also experienced sexual harassment in the workplace and was so shaken by it, I couldn't go back. It was a temp job, so it was easy enough to call in the next day and say, "NOPE. Not going back there again!" But for an employer to be SO DENSE as to not believe that this was happening and that no one had reported it before just floors me. But it also shows how brave and amazing you are.

[@eiremerald]

I firmly believe than you and other African American interpreters are doing an amazing service in spite of history not being as kind to you. So glad you are speaking up and I hope this raises awareness throughout the community.

[@Mani_Manic]

Racism in America has not changed a singular bit. That is literally the only conclusion to be made from this video.

[@kmross73]

No. Sadly, it hasn't.

[@sofiabravo1994]

Just like all sins such as rape murder stealing etc racism is included as never going away...sadly.

[@alfiex6667]

Yes it has, when my dad was going to school everyone used to call him n*gger and make fun of him for being black, this is less common now

[@digitallurke7710]

@@alfiex6667 difference being they no longer say it to your face

[@alfiex6667]

@@digitallurke7710 your just one of those people who assumes all white people are racist, and I've been made fun of for being goth and gay then for being black it really isn't that real for most of the community y'all like to play up alot

[@TootlesTart]

I’m not black. I can say that as a teen I had a manager rub against and grope me at my work site. I was told by my own family that it’s only happening to me, that I must be making it up, seeking attention. It happens in my world. It happens in your world. Except it’s even worse when you are an historical minority with white bosses. I’m just ready to scream because I know how violating it is, how voiceless you can be made to feel. Looking back it’s all so crystal clear, isn’t it?! Managers and admins would rather have high turnover and let the problem go away than deal with it. Women are not supported or believed.

[@inyobill]

"Blame the victim" Assaults routinely not reported because people don't want to deal with the victim shaming in the police precincts. "What did you do to encourage the assault?" "Um, being a woman, you're right, all my fault." Disgusting.

[@TootlesTart]

@@inyobill Thanks for understanding. For years I actually believed there was something wrong with me for telling my parents about it. I actually began to believe nothing bad had happened, that I’d just imagined it or hyped it up to get attention. That’s the way my parents were trained to think, that it’s normal and acceptable for this stuff to happen. I grateful to know that I’m not crazy. Women have begun to call it out, lay it out in the open. Things are more clear now. All I knew as a teen was that I’d felt violated. The obese manager grabbed my hips and thrust his pelvis against me to squeeze through a tight space. He had a full-on boner and I was so naive - I’d never really been with a guy yet. I knew in my mind what he did, though. It’s been two decades ago now. How many girls did he do this to before he retired with full benefits?

[@avenillacastienkersteter8283]

My husband and I love going to historic sites and listening to the interpreters “bring history to life.” From now on you can bet I’m going to make sure we are right at the back of the tour so that this doesn’t happen while we are there! The fact that your manager and co-workers blamed you is unacceptable! I hope that each and everyone of them experience what you went through and that they were not believed so that maybe next time they will learn to support the person being attached! I am so glad my father, even though he was raised in the Deep South, came to change his attitude when he was sent to the West Coast for basic training (this was just before he was sent to Korea). He taught me and my sister’s to stand up if I saw anyone being abused in any way shape or form. I am thankful you were able to get help and that you are still able to interpret history. 🥰

[@liabowden8526]

If I ever go to one of these places, I'm asking how they protect their workers from harassment before I fork over my money. If I don’t find their answer adequate, I’m telling them so and leaving.

[@nomisunrider6472]

Good idea. It goes against our instincts to make a big deal out of it, out of fear that it might rebound on us, or worse, the person being assaulted, but if you do make a big deal out of it then others will follow your lead and they'll be outnumbered. People like this thrive in silence, so if you can safely call them out, do so.

[@hoppytoad79]

Great ally move (being at the back to look out for the interpreters)!

[@ReptilianTeaDrinker]

@@liabowden8526 That's not a bad idea. They really should protect their workers better to prevent this sort of thing happening. It's awful that it DOES happen, because it really shouldn't be.

[@stephanieharper2421]

Just watching your videos for the first time and this one broke my heart. I'm a retired nurse, and worked a lot of different jobs before I became a nurse. The number one gaslighting bullshit response from HR everywhere is "nobody else has an issue with this". About anything. And it is a horrible thing to say to someone, since 99.99% of the time it is a straight-up lie. But it starts you questioning yourself, and tries to shame you into hiding the problem instead of finding support from your coworkers who are having the same issues. I am fortunate that my experience before becoming a nurse gave me the insight to say "bullshit" to that particular response every time I got it. And I hope yours will help you in future if you encounter it again. There is so much bravery in being willing to get up and be willing to re-enact the kind of trauma that you were interpreting as a service, educating those of us who were unaware of the history. That people were unwilling to recognize how vulnerable that made you, and that you deserved to be cherished and protected for being willing to put yourself out there just infuriates me. No excuse for it. And I am sorry you had to go through that trauma.

[@smartin5888]

I walked in on my friend and coworker being sexually assaulted by a patient. It was one of 3 assaults on our unit that week. It’s everywhere :(

[@sarcasticallyrearranged]

HR has been to straight up protect the employer, not the employee. If they don't have to address an incident, they don't have to investigate which can cost time and money.

[@momof2240]

Wait…so there had to be a “Please don’t sexually assault our workers” sign displayed ?? Are the workers supposed to throw the sign at them?? Like wtf 🙄

[@CrixusHeart]

This is ridiculous! What's happening is defeating the purpose of the reenactment. I wish I was healthier. I would go undercover (on my own, not affiliated with police). I'd be surprising harassers with my stun gun.

[@hoosierjonny336]

I am a reenactor and just in general the issue of harassment and sexual harassment I hear of from women in the reenacting and living history field disgusts me. My group and my friend's group both have policies we cover on making sure people step in if someone witnesses this kind of stuff no matter who the victim is. I am so sincerely sorry that you went through this and were not treated right by the administration! Thank you for sharing this and speaking up as we need to make sure this topic is better known for everyone. As a reenactor that has done events since 2017 I have never seen anything, and it would be easy for many to downplay stories because like me they have not seen it. But what people fail to understand is there is no certainty of when a situation will occur to be a witness to it. Just because we have never seen it happen yet doesn't mean it isn't happening.

[@roadrunnercrazy]

Just to add that the people who say and do such vile things are often very adept at not being observed. They choose their moments carefully so that any accusations can be easily denied. Predators are what they are. We need to start believing and supporting women in general and women of color specifically.

[@susuburleson878]

roadrunnercrazy Yes, they are predators, and they count on the natural response of their prey to “ freeze” and question what’s happening.

[@bunnyslippers191]

@@roadrunnercrazy I agree that these people are usually those who are very experienced in choosing their moment when they are not under observation to strike. They are, indeed, predators, dangerous predators and need to be stopped.

[@kellyalves756]

Probably doesn’t happen in front of you, sir, because predators sense you are vigilant. Thank you for being so. 👏🏽

[@kellyalves756]

@Falhawk73 Well, fyou can avoid grabbing their boobs or butt, you can refrain from implying that you long for the good old days when whipping a woman was legal, and you can avoid expressing envy for the imaginary master of the house for his sexual access to the “ property “ that you are having a conversation with. If you honestly think any of the above is “ flirting,” your inevitable incarceration will be a benefit to us all.

[@ellexusmay3506]

I’ve thought about and wanted to move more into the field but apprehension related to these experiences have completely stopped me. You are so brave for sharing your story with us. I hope you continue to educate and enlighten us about our American journey. Thank you.

[@melaneykk5986]

Being sexually harassed is always horrible, adding racist, hateful harassment to the already painful experience, I can not imagine how much more painful that is. Thank you for sharing. I am glad you took care of yourself.

[@red4081]

i recently found your channel and im moved by the emotional labor you take on to bring the stories to light that you do, it's so important to keep the voices alive and show the parts of history that are overlooked. it's disgusting to think people would perpetuate the same social structures in the modern times towards another person. the prevalence of white supremacy in historical reenactments is a cancer that should be cut out. your presence is a blessing.

[@DJPoundPuppy]

Those are the sort of people who enjoy this evil and oppressive system. They enjoy the advantages they received and do still. Soooo wicked. They couldn't take your joy. I'm so glad that I found this channel from Instagram!

[@mariejilberia5908]

No one deserves to be treated indecent. It's sad and heart breaking, I am so sorry that you and the others had these awful experiences. Stay beautiful and strong and please keep educating us.

[@mkat8505]

You can see how upset and exhausted she is at the beginning of the video. Could barely get her greeting out, my heart was breaking for this sweet lady even before she told her story 😢😞❤️ praying for you honey ❤️ Edit: My God. It's a reenactment, not role play. And if *that* is the role they'd want to play, they are monsters.

[@YourRoyalMajesty.]

I just want to hug you. I am so beyond sorry you have had to go through this. You are appreciated and loved.

[@moxiebombshell]

First let me say I know this is an old video but I just found you via Abby Cox, and I love what you're doing on here. Now: I am so angry for you. SO angry. And I am SO sorry, and so pissed that your complaints went unheeded. I agree wholeheartedly with your suggestions as to what needs to be done by living museums, etc. in order to provide a safe workplace for black and African-American interpreters. Strengthening protections for interpreters and reenactors from sexual harassment and assault across the board sounds like an overdue plan, as well... As does firing your former supervisor (out of a cannon. Into the sea. Or maybe a fire). Thank you for sharing your experiences, and continuing to do the work to educate folks despite it all - we obviously need it.

[@pipitameruje]

Same! I just got here from the collab videos with Abby, and I'm simply pissed for her.

[@moniquedhooghe]

@@pipitameruje pissed and heartbroken

[@namafarm]

We love you. We support you. We care about you. Thank you for talking about this. You are raising the right issues to the forefront. Thank you for doing your work in the world at this time. Blessings!

[@brigitte5080]

I'm so sorry you've gone through this. I've been inappropriately groped/touched but not in my workplace. I was abused in my workplace through bullying. I asked for help but no one supported or believed me & allowed it to continue. The worst is when you ask for help & are isolated after it. The throat tightens & I lost my voice. I froze many times. It's different. You wouldn't have frozen if it wasn't at work. These people had no right to treat you or anyone that way and it makes me so angry that people think they can treat people with disrespect. Thank you for your bravery & vulnerability in sharing this story. It's really powerful and struck a chord with me.

[@qkranarchist3015]

I'm so grateful for all the work to accomplish this video. I'm terribly sorry for all the pain making this video put Cheyney through. It's such a important report. As an activist in changing systems to community level antiviolence approaches, Cheyney is contributing so much to our communities.

[@raerae725]

I am so angry for you. When I initially saw this video title I misread and I thought it was these issues in history. The mangers and such not taking proper action is just as wrong as the people harassing you. You deserve to be believed and supported.

[@DamesalaMode]

Wow. Thank you for speaking up about this. I am white and was an interpreter for several years at two sites, including one where I was in costume and worked 100% alone. I never once feared for my safety and never experienced any kind of verbal or physical assault and it never occurred to me that this was an issue. Once again you have opened my eyes about the additional challenges Black interpreters (and especially Black women interpreters) face in this field.

[@christinaday7752]

I can’t imagine how horrifying it must’ve been to have gone through these expeditions and then be gaslit by the people who are supposed to support you. Im so sorry. I just found your channel and I’ve never been to a place like this. What do you mean people can pay to whip the slaves???

[@radiantmandi86]

I just found her channel too and I’m captured by content.

[@Sundeicolors]

Chile isn't that just ridiculous 😠 Either they were lying or telling the truth of a sadistic joke! Either way they tried it! I'm upset for this Queen!

[@TanyaQueen182]

Also, I'm FLOORED to hear what happened to you and what some people said, can be worse than what they do. But no one. NO ONE should feel unsafe in their workplace. People are horrible sometimes. :(

[@cherdrol]

Thank you for speaking up. It’s important.

[@TwistsandTurbans]

I am so sorry you had to go through such an experience. I’ve watched most of your videos so far with my family . You have a wonderful personality, a great African American Historian and we’ve learned a lot from you. We truly appreciate you and your knowledge.

[@emilyfeagin2673]

I’m so sorry that happened to you You are a professional, and you give so much to all of us through your hard work My grandmother used to recommend a hat pin for perverts

[@theembersinside1420]

I had a STRONG feeling that being an interpreter or recreation actor of this sort had these horrible risks. I really give it 2u for doing this work. It's sick that anyone would treat another human being like that. Especially when they're trying to recreate something sooo traumatic to their community so that YOU can learn something. Smh.

[@Lady_dromeda]

Hearing those disgusting things that happened to you made me feel sick. The idea of someone thinking that you are just an object to touch or harass just.... I have no words

[@soxpeewee]

If I was her, I'd be inclined to keep ye olde taser on me and use it.

[@daniellezepess]

It's appalling (though, regrettably, not surprising) that anyone would think sexual harassment is OK on any level, or that it's a topic not to be addressed in the workplace. I hate that this happened to you, and I appreciate your willingness to speak about such a personal experience on such a broad platform. ❤❤❤

[@VicStAmand]

My heart goes out to you for going through this aweful experience at a job you truely loved, and then to find out that management offered no support when you spoke out. Your bravery is inspiring

[@vanjamisevic6079]

I “love” it that assaulters always lie or blame it on the ones they assault and eventually people désolidarise. I am so sorry you had to live though this, I hope you will be able to implement to support structure and we will eventually get this to stop. You are right to speak out. Thank you in the name of all of us who have been assaulted and let down. All races and genders.

[@Emmaisanerdfighter]

Thank you so much for speaking out. I've had similar experiences of asking that a site have some kind of communicated "don't touch the interpreters" policy and receiving no support.

[@Spacebuny]

I feel for you, things like this should happen to no one. The management should have done more and never have questioned your integrity. Hugs to you!

[@hq_FiRE]

How do people forget something as simple as keeping their hands to themselves? You're brave and awesome, thank you for sharing your experiences.

[@oneangryboi408]

I have no idea who in the world thinks putting their hands on someone without consent is okay, but they unfortunately exist.

[@joannemattson5154]

Thank you for pushing through until you were able to complete this video. You are very brave. And we all need to know what you and your colleagues deal with. You are so right. Management should be required to do what it takes to protect their interpreters from these illegal acts. No one should feel unsafe in any work place.

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

I admire your work so much, and in this case I deeply admire your bravery and honesty. I wish you had named and shamed the site where this happened! Shame on the managers for not having your back, shame on your team for not being supportive. No shame on you for freezing - that is a natural reaction and completely understandable.

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

Also, THANK YOU for pointing out reasonable, logical solutions to begin tackling these problems!

[@theladylunaravens]

Yes thank you for sharing your story! So many people said I was overreacting when men would make comments to me when I was a saloon girl at an old west town. I had so many men try and touch me and would try to get me to "pose" for them or say really inappropriate stuff infront of their kids. I felt disgusted and really had a hard time keeping my composure. I am so glad you are keeping this in the spotlight. I cannot imagine being in your shoes as a women of color. I hope one day we can reenact in peace. I always try and be buffer between racists and reenactors of color. Most people of authority don't even care, or say it's never happened. Stay strong

[@irisfilmproductions]

Sidenote: that blue flowered dress you're wearing is so pretty

[@AlishaHerbiederbie]

Thank you for sharing this in such an open and honest way. As a woman who has experienced sexual assault I cannot imagine how mentally and emotionally damaging it was to have that happen in your workplace. Thank you for helping people like me see and understand this issue and what we can do to stop it.

[@billiebluesheepie2907]

I came over from Abby’s video, and stayed, because I was enjoying your experience, but this has left me cold. What people were doing was so wrong and should have been followed up, but what your supervisors did was even more unforgivable. I’m from/in a different country and some things excused as ‘banter’, can be upsetting despite people dismissing it as ‘it’s only verbal’, but non of it should be tolerated. Many years ago now, I used to do an event every year, one year taking my 12 year old sister (don’t panic, there’s a big age gap, I’m child no1 and she’s child no 10!). She said one of the people there made her uncomfortable, but she wouldn’t say anything else despite me constantly asking. In the train an the way home she described some very graphic sexual assaults that this man had done to her, some that involved a second person not only being present, but joining in. This was over 20 years ago and it’s still making me cry typing. (We reported both men, they said it was ‘just banter’ and they ‘were in character’ - they were dealt with in ‘modern times’).

[@avenillacastienkersteter8283]

billieblue Sheepie I’m glad to hear the men were held accountable.

[@buckeyedav1]

I am so sorry that happened to you. I have come across these kind of men before who don't take No as a answer and it fills me with rage that they feel they have the right to touch you anywhere on your body. I am glad you were able to get help.. you are filling a vital role in our society don't let it discourage you. Hugs from one sister to another. Anna In Ohio

[@RaziTobias]

I am so sorry that you experienced this racism, harassment and assault. I'm so glad you got therapy after these events. I absolutely agree that there should be services in place for living historians to help protect them and assist them with recovery and justice for these instances. Thank you so much for what you do.

[@Floweroftheprairie2720]

Thank you for speaking up. We love historical interpretation and will definitely be more aware to look out for the protection of African American interpreters.

[@MariaAntoinetteF]

I’m so sorry that happened to you. I would love to re-enact and often do as a soprano. But never on your level which I totally commmrnd. Don’t stop. Our ancestors speak through people like you.

[@vsanchez7158]

Who thinks it’s ok to say and do such things? People are awful !

[@leoscheibelhut940]

When I first saw this the title was cut off so I assumed that you would be discussing the historic abuse enslaved women were forced to endure. I am very sad that you were subjected to those misbehaviors, thank you for sharing. What you experienced is real and heartbreaking. I suspect that you received much more abuse than other reenactors because there is a certain kind of people who feel entitled to abuse others especially people of color or others they feel are less than them. I thought that kind of people were few in America, but the election of a white supremist 5 years ago taught me how wrong I was. Thank you for persevering despite such outrages. You are valued.

[@ladybathshuamoshe1751]

Anxiety, depression, mental health issues, that our ancestors went through and today the black interpreters are going through the same thing. History is just repeating itself, the evil and the pain and torture that was done in the buildings, that the tours are given, linger , it adheres to the walls, it covers the floors , the empty spirits are still there floating around, spreading the hatred and the racist disgusting thoughts. Pray before you leave to go to work, pray as you enter the building, once you have dolled up in your old historical costumes , sage yourself and your surroundings , where you will be speaking. Call on your ancestors that are still on the property to step in and to protect you from the other side. If you want to keep doing this work I’ll pray for you, you’re better than me I would’ve left. And as a women, and a Survivor, for your voice to not be heard, and your feelings being validated on the issues that occurred on the worksite against your physical body and Spirit. It hurts me, stay strong, and it will all come full circle. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💯✊🏾

[@t.j.7789]

Ditto, evil keeps deleting my messages!!!

[@moneybags999]

@Lady That was so poetic & so correct. People don't know how this works. I doubt if she can sage at work but maybe she can wear some black tourmaline. I'm sure there is a LOT of negative energy coming from guests, co-workers, management & whatever is lingering at that site.

[@rebeccasilverman5519]

I’m so sorry that you’ve had these experiences.

[@joettapolk1189]

Please don't allow ignorant people to end your career. You represent us well. Praying 🙏for you!!!

[@indigoace261]

I appreciate you for shining a light and providing perspective on the experiences of interpreters. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@catherineleslie-faye4302]

Thank you for sharing this... As a rape survivor, I understand the need for therapy and that it does work.

[@thezaftigwendy]

I am a survivor of rape and sexual assault. I am HORRIFIED but not at all surprised that this happened to you. I'm so sorry that you and other women have had to experience this kind of attack. I wish there was something I could do to help. You are so beautiful and strong and amazing! Thank you for educating me and others!

[@slingerdown]

Finding this 2 years later but so glad this popped up. Thank you for sharing your story and opening my eyes to you and your colleagues’ experience. I’m so inspired in the way you found strength to take action on this.

[@eastlynburkholder3559]

When I was waitressing, i would accidentally on purpose spill something on the offender or jam a tray into a person's ribs. Calling security or a manager was not helpful.