“Having our say” is an oral history account written by Sarah Delany and Elizabeth Delany who were daughters of a former slave. These sisters were pioneers of civil rights, and their story was known after their interview that was on the New York Times. The story presents trials and tribulations that the sisters faced during the story which is historically accurate and non-fiction. One of the major themes that are found in their narration is education.
Education is viewed in their story several times in the book. An example in the story is when Sarah also known as Sadie and Elizabeth whose nickname is Bessie are said to be among the oldest people alive that witnessed the American history (100). American history is part of education as it is learnt in schools all over America hence this shows the books demonstration of education. American history covers trends in the history of education philosophy, institutions, policy and informal and formal learning that took place in America in the 17th Century to date.
Education is also seen in the book when Bessie’s and Sadie’s parents are mentioned to have instilled the value of education on their ten children. Their father Henry Delany was freed from slavery when he was 7 years old. When he was in his twenties, he got a scholarship opportunity so that he could go to college. This was not a common thing for the black population in the 1900s. People thought that the family was living outsides their means and its own people.
The two sisters went to college after their high school education. They were never married in their lifetime (180). This could have attributed to their level of education that scared the potential husbands. This shows that education is important as it makes people smart and independent. This is because the sisters could do everything on their own without relying on other peoples help because of their education.
The theme of Education is seen when Bessie and Sadie talk about their parents who met as they were attending school. This shows that education brings people together as their parents met in this setting. They met in St. Augustine School.
The importance of education can be seen when the owners of the plantation farm teach the Delany Family how to read and write despite the fact that it was illegal (210). This point in the novel was uplifting as people did not see the importance of educating black people. Educating the Delany’s shows people’s misconception on education not being for all as the family gained success because of their education.
History of American education is explained in the book as we are told that St. Augustine’s was the only college that could accommodate the black at the time. Henry Delany had to convert to be an Episcopalian so that he could get the education (54). This was a choice that he did not regret as there were limited schools that could take people who were former slaves.
In conclusion, education is very important as can be viewed from the book. As seen from the book, education improved the lives of Bessie and Sadie and their parents. Today, there are many schools all over the world that offer equal opportunities to all people regardless of their race. This is a good cause as all individuals should get an equal chance at education.
Work Cited
Delany Sarah, Delany Elizabeth & Hearth Amy. Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years Mass Market. Dell. September 1, 1994. Print.
