On August 10th “The Help” comes out in theaters. It stars Viola Davis, Cicely Tyson, Octavia Spencer and Aunjanue Ellis, and our Caucasian sisters: Bryce Dallas Howard, Allison Janney, Sissy Spacek and Emma Stone. It’s based on the bestselling 2009 novel by Kathryn Stockett. Click here to access the official movie site to read a synopsis. http://thehelpmovie.com/us/#s=about
I remember when my maternal grandmother, Lovie Mae Perkins (affectionately known as Grandma Dear) was the help. For 30+ years she worked as a housekeeper for the Shloms – a nice Jewish family who originally lived in Northwest Detroit, then Southfield, then eventually West Bloomfield. The Shlom’s family photograph still hangs on my grandmother’s wall in her living room, featuring Lovie Mae as the only spot of color.
My grandmother loved the Shloms and spoke highly of them. Mrs. Shlom gave Grandma Dear wonderful hand-me-downs. Whenever Grandma Dear brought home something the Shloms no longer had any use for - whether it were dozens of pairs of shoes, clothes, dishes, or food (because they were clearing out their pantry for Passover), she would give her daughters and granddaughters a chance to view the merchandise and pick out whatever we wanted. I still use my set of used Mikasa dishes I got compliments of the Shloms in 1997 when I moved into my first place.
Although Grandma Dear is now deceased, I still hold dear memories of her and the Shloms (whom she referred to as “her other family”), and how she was part of a generation who had a strong work ethic – dedicated and hard working. (Did I mention she worked as a bar maid at night? But that’s a whole other blog topic).
How many of you can relate? Most black families have a grandma, aunt, or maybe even a male relative who worked for a family like the Shloms.
I’m recommending The Help as a must-see movie for the summer. Go see this movie with an older relative who may truly relate to the story that is told in The Help. Maybe even go see this movie as a Black History lesson with your kids. Or, make it a Ladies Night Out. However you choose to use this movie, just use it!
Until next time….Ciao!
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| Lovie Mae Perkins August 11, 1922 - August 26, 2007 |
I have seen the movie The Help and it was good. I am so glad that one of maids decided to make doo doo pie to teach racist white women a distastful lesson about treating people with disrespect.
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