On Hilton Head Island, the Gullah people are engaged in a crucial struggle to preserve their community and heritage. These descendants of West African enslaved individuals have lived on the island for generations, yet have increasingly faced challenges due to rapid development and gentrification.
History of the Gullah People on Hilton Head Island
The Gullah-Geechee community includes those descended from enslaved Africans who once worked the rice and cotton plantations along the South Carolina coast. Historically, they comprised approximately 90% of Hilton Head’s population in 1950. Today, they represent only about 6% of the island’s 38,000 residents, a stark shift since the mid-20th century.
Impact of Development
The 1960s and 1970s marked a turning point for Hilton Head, as extensive real estate development led to the displacement of Gullah communities. Historic sites like Stoney were affected by the construction of new infrastructure, such as the first bridge connecting the island to the mainland.
The ongoing influx of wealthy vacationers has further marginalized the Gullah people. Many native residents feel excluded from the economic benefits brought by tourism, which generated $2.8 billion in revenue from over 2.5 million visitors last year.
Current Struggles for Land and Rights
- Gullah communities lack essential infrastructure, including proper drainage and sewer systems.
- Zoning laws often hinder Gullah landowners from developing their properties.
- Many Gullah families face financial challenges due to heirs’ property disputes.
The Southern Poverty Law Center is investigating zoning policies that disproportionately affect Gullah landowners. These policies complicate attempts to profit from or maintain their land, often resulting in sales at significantly undervalued prices.
Legacy and Community Advocacy
Leaders within the Gullah community, like Taiwan Scott, are fighting to reinvigorate their presence and assert their rights. Scott, a licensed real estate agent, emphasizes the importance of ownership and the community’s legacy.
Efforts to preserve Gullah culture include the establishment of businesses like Da Gullah Geechee Pavilion, aimed at showcasing their unique heritage to visitors.
Call for Change
In light of growing concerns over inequities in development, Gullah advocates urge local authorities to create more equitable opportunities. They call for:
- Facilitating property subdivision for heirs.
- Increasing housing density to better utilize available land.
Community leaders believe these changes are essential for empowering Gullah families to retain ownership and benefit from their ancestral land.
A Path Forward
As the Gullah people combat the impacts of development on Hilton Head Island, their fight highlights the need for greater recognition and respect for their rights. Ensuring that their voices are heard in local governance is pivotal for the future of their communities and heritage.
