The process of desegregation in Austin began in the 1950's. Blacks were no longer bound to live in one part of town and that allowed people to move into different neighborhoods. But some African-Americans left Austin completely.
The warmth that emanated from the tight knit community is gone. But several groups are trying to give the word “community” a new meaning.
- For those who are new in town, there’s an online community called Austin’s Black Newcomers Association.
- The Capital City African American Chamber of Commerce is actively “recruiting” blacks and their businesses from places as far as Brazil and the African continent.
- The Austin Area Urban League is hosting events for the younger crowd promoting civic engagement, philanthropy and fun.
In the audio player above, learn more about Austin's African-American hertiage, through the lens of one longtime family.
