Nassau County Insider
June 29, 2021
At last night’s meeting, the Board of County Commissioners approved Resolution No. 2021-142, proclaiming the week of July 31 through August 8, 2021, as “Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week”.
Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week was first recognized in 2012 in celebration of the living legacy of Gullah/Geechee history, heritage and culture. The Gullah/Geechees have an extensive history in Nassau County, specifically on Amelia Island in Old Town and American Beach, as well as Yulee, Nassauville, and Franklintown.
Queen Quet, Chieftess of the Gullah/Geechee Nation, has been spreading awareness regarding the history and legacy of the Gullah/Geechees and has headed numerous endeavors that have led to global recognition. She also led several libation ceremonies in Old Town, including the Middle Passage Marker Ceremony.
Queen Quet was in attendance to accept the Resolution. She stated, “We are so pleased that more people are recognizing the fact that the Gullah/Geechee Nation comes down here to Florida (from South Carolina). So many people want to stop it at Georgia’s border and we have to emphasize that our ancestors continued southward. They came here for freedom. We appreciate the fact that you are highlighting those stories of freedom here in Nassau County”.
During Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week, all residents and visitors are encouraged to take part in activities that coincide with global activities for the United Nation’s International Decade of People of African Descent.
Note: The City of Fernandina Beach also recently approved a Proclamation in recognition of Gullah/Geechee Nation Appreciation Week. Queen Quet was unable to attend that meeting due to scheduling conflicts so City Commissioner, Len Kreger, attend the County meeting to present the City’s Proclamation to Queen Quet.
-Sabrina Robertson
Public Information Officer