Ep 3. The South Carolina Gullah

In the third episode of United Shades of America's third season, host and comedian W. Kamau Bell heads to South Carolina to explore the unique culture of the Gullah people.

The Gullah are descended from enslaved West Africans who were brought to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries to work in the rice fields of coastal South Carolina and Georgia. Despite centuries of oppression and discrimination, the Gullah have maintained a distinct and vibrant culture, with its own language, music, and traditions.

In this episode, Bell visits the small island of St. Helena, one of the few remaining Gullah communities in the United States. He meets with a local Gullah historian and educator, who explains the history and language of the Gullah people, and introduces Bell to some of the community's traditional foods, including okra soup and red rice.

Bell also attends a traditional Gullah church service, where he witnesses the community's unique style of gospel music, which blends African rhythms and influences with Christian hymns. He learns about the importance of the church to the Gullah community, as a spiritual and social center where people come together to worship and share their experiences.

Throughout the episode, Bell emphasizes the importance of preserving and valuing the culture of the Gullah people. He reflects on the ways in which mainstream American culture often overlooks or dismisses the contributions and experiences of marginalized groups, and encourages viewers to appreciate and learn from the unique cultures and histories of all people in the United States.

Overall, this episode of United Shades of America provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Gullah people, and offers valuable insights into the intersections of race, culture, and history in the American South.