Where Will You Go? — Stories about Travel
Developed and contributed by Crystal Elliott O’Connor & Sarah Jo Zaharako as part of the Wilmette Public Library Let’s Learn Together program series.
Participants share their stories about travel and create colorful maps.
Full Program Description
In this program for the whole family, participants will learn about the historic Green Book travel guide. Published from 1936 to 1964, The Negro Motorist Green Book by Victor H. Green provided Black travelers with lodging, dining, and logistical information needed to stay safe during the era of racial segregation. Through the creation of maps and sharing experiences, this workshop is designed to give families the language and context to find common ground and talk about why race matters in our society.
Supplies
- Colored pencils
- Printed map template
- Copy or reproduction of The Negro Motorist Green Book
- Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey
Program content
- Participants gather at one big table set with map making supplies
- While participants begin creating maps, invite them to share about where they travel or trips they’ve made.
- Prompt: What makes you feel safe when you travel? Was there ever a time you didn’t feel safe?
- Show The Green Book and explain why it was an important resource for Black travelers.
- Read Ruth and the Green Book.
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