September 14th, 2009
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Interview with Mrs. Velma Gates
General Topic of Interview: Education and racial politics
Date: 28 October, 2008
Location: Clarkesdale, Mississippi, USA
Narrator: Mrs. Velma Gates
Interviewer: Ryan Koons
Transcriber: Atandi Anyona
Biographical Information:
Mrs. Velma Gates is a retired teacher. She grew up in Indianola, Mississippi, and later attended Alcorn State University.
Interview Information:
Mrs. Gates describes teaching in an integrated school system. She details racism she encountered while growing up, and tells how her father never allowed his children to work for white people because of racism. She gives her opinion on the current political situation, especially Barack Obama’s bid for the American presidency.