Episode 17: RIP - Justice for a Historically Black Cemetery

The Activist Files Podcast

On the 17th episode of “The Activist Files,” Communications Associate Josh Manson talks with Janice Dickerson and her attorney, Christopher Meeks, about the struggle to protect a historically Black cemetery in Louisiana. Purchased in 1881 by Janice’s great-great-great grandfather and other former slaves, Revilletown Cemetery in Plaquemine, LA, has long been the final resting place for former slaves and their descendants. But the chemical company Westlake/Axiall Chemical claims it is the rightful owner of the property. The company has prevented Janice and other community members from accessing the cemetery, including visiting their ancestors buried there, closed the access road to the cemetery, called the police when community members have tried to visit, threatened arrest, and otherwise harassed those who try to visit. As Janice says, in a poignant and unarguable comment, “If this would have been a white graveyard we never would have these problems.” The conversation broadens to discuss the effect of chemical plants on the lives and health of Black communities throughout Louisiana. This episode is an important look at the broader struggle to maintain Black-owned land.