Interview #2, Rose Brantley

What is your name? My name is Rose Brantley.
Where were you born? Augusta, Georgia, 1955.
How was it like growing up in Georgia as a black woman? There were good and bad times. I grew up during the 60's as the Civil Rights movement was at its peak. Georgia was very racist in certain areas and not in others. My family moved to Atlanta in '66 for better jobs as Atlanta was about making money than racism at the time. Atlanta was less racist than other parts of Georgia. Rome (Georgia) was bad with racism.
How was racist was Rome? I had family in Rome and segregation was bad. Drinking fountains, buses, diners it was everywhere. Protesters were thrown and beaten by the police. Rome was one of those Old South places. Racism was ingrained there with whites deeply. There was a unofficial curfew there for blacks too. It was something terrible. My stubborn uncle and aunt stayed through the toughest times. They were better than would of been.
How does the South now compare to the South in the 60's? A lot has changed for the better and some things still remain the same. There's a lot black people can do now that they couldn't do back then. I see black people owning their own businesses, going to big time schools and thats a normal thing now. It wasn't like that in the 60's. One thing that really shocked me was the president being black. I couldn't imagine that back then. Oh Lord you couldn't have even dreamed about that back then. But see how they treat him though. Racism is now more hidden now than out in your face like back then.
How important do you think Obama being elected was to black people? Oh baby it was symbolic. I got my Obama t-shirts and key chains (laughter). It really showed certain parts of America was trying to change. I think many black and white people were proud.
What are your views on interracial couples? I don't really have an opinion. If thats what you like then go ahead. Happiness has no color.
How do you think the state of black women is right now? Its good but can get better. From what I heard black women are doing well at school and being real ambitious. My daughter can testify to that.
How do you compare your daughter's opportunities and your opportunities at the same age? Well my daughter is 24 and is taking a year off before heading to grad school. At 24 I was working at clothing store trying to get money to go back to school after completing communicity college. I think my generation opened doors for the younger ones to reach their goals. I'm proud of them.
How do you see yourself in 10 years? Relaxing with my husband and hanging out with your crazy mom (laughter). I love her like a sister. And Carlos you need to visit more often Mr. Ole Miss. Stop being a stranger, ya hear.
(Laughter) Yes ma'am. I will do. Thanks for the interview, Rose.