Black slave cemetery in Staten Island is buried under concrete and strip mall

A documentary sheds light on the Cherry Lane Cemetery, an African-American burial ground in Staten Island, which was covered with concrete and transformed into a strip mall. This cemetery, once a resting place for many African-Americans, was effectively erased from the landscape, highlighting a troubling history of neglect and disrespect for African-American heritage sites. The film explores the cemetery’s history, the community’s efforts to preserve its memory, and the broader implications of such erasures on cultural heritage. By uncovering this story, the documentary aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving historical sites and respecting the legacies of marginalized communities. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need to honor and protect the histories that shape our communities, even when they are inconvenient or uncomfortable. QUESTION: How might the erasure of historical sites like Cherry Lane Cemetery impact future generations’ understanding of their cultural heritage?