Sep 11, 20232 min read

Uncovering Dr. Ruth Simmons' Indigenous American Maternal Heritage

Trust me, it's a game-changer! In Episode 7 (season 2) of PBS's Find Our Roots, our queen, Dr. Ruth Simmons, the first African American president of Brown University, takes us on an emotional journey into her family's history.

Now, let me tell y'all, this episode had me shook! Dr. Simmons, a distinguished figure in African American academia, discovered something that's about to flip the script. She found out that her maternal genetic heritage traces back to being 100% Indigenous American. Yep, you read that right – she's got deep Indigenous roots.

It's important to note what the deep Indigenous roots look like.

That's right, undeniably Indigenous. Undeniably negro.

Now, let's break it down. For so long, the African American community has been disconnected from their native heritage due to the brutal history of slavery, forced migration, and cultural erasure. This revelation from Dr. Simmons is a big deal, not just for her but for all of us.

It's like reconnecting with a part of our history that was stolen from us. Our ancestors' stories, traditions, and cultures were suppressed, but Dr. Simmons' journey reminds us that those roots are still there, waiting to be rediscovered.

This episode speaks to the resilience and strength of the African American community, showing that no matter how far we've come and how much we've overcome, we're still finding new layers to our identity. It's a reminder that we're not just defined by our past, but by the rich tapestry of our ancestry.

So, as we watch Dr. Simmons connect with her Indigenous heritage, it's a call for all of us to dig a little deeper into our own family histories. Who knows what we might find? Our roots run deep, and they're waiting to be explored, celebrated, and embraced.

In a world that sometimes tries to erase our identities, this episode of Finding Our Roots reminds us that we are multifaceted, resilient, and beautifully diverse. It's a testament to the power of knowledge, self-discovery, and the unbreakable bonds of heritage. Keep digging, fam, and let's celebrate the richness of our roots! ✊🏾🌱 #FindingOurRoots #DrRuthSimmons #RediscoveringHeritage