Fan Favorite: Facing Forsyth County's Past & Honoring Its Descendants

In this Fan Favorite Episode, we delve into a story of resilience, reconciliation, and community spirit. Forsyth County, with its complex history, is making strides towards healing and inclusivity. Joining us on (Y) Connect is Durwood Sneed, an organizer of the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship, a pivotal initiative aimed at honoring and supporting the descendants of those who were unjustly expelled from the county, a racial cleansing campaign that took place in 1912 forcing Black residents out of the county. Additionally, we are joined by Joshua Byrd, a descendant who bravely returned to Forsyth County and shared his inspiring journey during the recent Juneteenth celebration hosted by the Forsyth County Family YMCA. This was the second year the Y's Caroline Del Carmen organized this community-wide event and she rounds out the conversation as well.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:03) Zarinah introduces the subject of today's podcast

• (03:23) Listen to a clip of Joshua speaking at an event, explaining why he decided to move back to Forsyth County

• (08:33) Joshua shares the Strickland Family's ancestry 

• (15:33) Caroline describes her part in organizing the Juneteenth event in Forsyth County

• (20:23) Durwood discusses how he worked hard to alleviate fear around the event, and Joshua talks about how he was excited about the expression of love

• (23:49) Durwood explains the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship and how he learned about the events of 1912

• (29:34) Joshua discusses what the scholarship program means to him and his family. Durwood comments on how the program is making a change and how the media and politicians spin race issues

• (38:33) Caroline shares what plans they have for the future

• (41:52) The guests share their Pathway to the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• In 1912, black families were evicted from Forsyth County.

• In 1987, Forsyth County, Georgia, was known as the most racist county in America. The goal is to make it known as the country known for love.

• The answer to this crisis is to acknowledge it happened, shine a light on it, and ensure it never happens again.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook:  YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY: 

Josh Byrd is deeply committed to positively impacting and creating environments that foster love, kindness, and positivity. His work aims to uplift and empower individuals, helping them reach their full potential in both personal and professional aspects of life.  As a seasoned business owner, wellness professional and operator of a thriving barbershop for over seven years, he has dedicated his career to fostering community, nurturing growth, and promoting holistic well-being. His diverse background in youth mentorship, coaching, and community activities has shaped his approach to creating inclusive, supportive spaces that serve personal and community needs. 

Durwood Snead is the co-founder and a leader of the Forsyth Descendants Scholarship, a college scholarship for descendants of African Americans violently expelled from the county in 1912. Durwood is a retired pastor from North Point Ministries, where he directed North Point's global(x) international ministry for almost eighteen years. Before transitioning to vocational ministry, Durwood spent 26 years in business, holding executive positions at CMD Group, AC Nielsen, and Duracell. He also serves on three other non-profit boards. Durwood and his wife Judi have lived in Forsyth County, Georgia, for 35 years, and they make regular visits to see their five children and sixteen grandchildren.

Caroline del Carmen started working with the Y in Montgomery, Alabama