Once upon a time when we were colored, is the story of young Clifton and his early life in Green Allan Mississippi. Clifton was born in 1946 from a young unmarried woman. His Great-grandparents took care of him, Poppa and Mama Pearl.
Poppa was the center of Clifton's existence; he was not only his best friend, but also Poppa's experience of the world and his Poppa taught everything wonderful in it to young Clifton. Clifton looked up to him. Clifton grew up among his extended family, love was always present for him, it must have been difficult to be away from his mother due to complicated circumstances, but she remained close by; he saw her often.
While growing up one of the most memorable moments were Saturday s when he and Poppa took a trip to Greenville, he got ready so quick and he could hardly wait to leave, while Poppa took his time to get ready (probably on purpose). Glen Allen was a community populated by colored people, mostly house cleaners, domestics, farmers, and teachers. Set apart from the humiliation and painful barriers of discrimination, and racism of the time. Glen Allan's community nurtured and protected each other, looking to enjoy life as much as possible. .
Once on their way to town, it was like crossing a barrier, where differences were very noticeable. The signs at public restrooms, water fountains read "colored", "whites only". I cannot imagine a young child trying to figure out the difference, or how he even began to comprehend this world. When in Greenville Poppa made sure he kept Clifton close to him, at the bakery or getting ready for the frozen custard, he made sure, Clifton stayed away from bothering white people, and once they were done with their business it was their turn to order what they needed. I believe Clifton now realizes what went on back then, but for him at that time Saturdays were the days to go up to town for frozen custard with Poppa.
Poppa always made sure that Christmas was a memorable experience not only for Clifton, but for the kids in general, this was the time when they all got a new toy that lasted 365 days, and got to eat fresh fruit.
