"The Aunties" Showcases the Vital Role of Black Queer Intergenerational Bonds

In 1994, Paulette Green and Donna Dear embarked on an exciting new journey by purchasing Mt. Pleasant Acres Farms. This sprawling 111-acre property, tucked between Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, isn't just a piece on a map—it holds historical importance as a stop on Harriet Tubman and her friends' legendary Underground Railroad. Over time, this land has become more than just a home; it's a sanctuary that's reshaped their lives. Throughout their years here, Paulette and Donna have been awarded numerous accolades celebrating their conservation efforts, while also weaving a rich tapestry with a growing family they affectionately call their "nieces" and "nephs." Two such honorary family members are filmmakers Charlyn Griffith-Oro and Jeannine Kayembe-Oro, who met these inspiring women in 2016 and immediately felt like they'd found lifelong mentors. Charlyn Griffith-Oro recalls, "There was an instant connection, a love we felt right away, but there's also a deep sense that comes with true freedom." She emphasizes how Paulette and Donna's stand against systemic racism and heteronormativity, paired with their enduring love and respect, has been a beacon.

A look at "The Aunties"

Paulette and Donna's incredible voyage through life has been captured in "The Aunties," a short film by Charlyn and Jeannine. Jeannine Kayembe-Oro notes, "Having mentors like The Aunties isn't common. They've crafted such a beautiful life, and having them close has been invaluable in our marriage." She elaborates that sharing their story resonates deeply within Black queer communities, shining a light on mentorship and support possibilities through generational friendships. During those early pandemic days, Charlyn, Jeannine, and their mentors grew even closer, paralleling their own marriage journey. This growth inspired their short film, showcasing "The Aunties" as a lively link between past and present, celebrating how rich generational connections can truly be. Griffith-Oro reflects, "Everyone deserves guidance and love from older generations. Acknowledge your worth so you can truly accept what you deserve—care and camaraderie from those who've lived and learned."

Embracing history and crafting a legacy

Paulette and Donna have intricately intertwined Harriet Tubman's legacy with their lives—naming their pets Aramtina and Rit, honoring Tubman and her mother. While their film showcases their land's historical weight, it also celebrates The Aunties' authentic and proud lives as queer elders. Their connection with LGBTQ+ communities has spanned decades. Paulette, originally from The Bronx and Harlem, lovingly remembers taking her grandmother—a first-timer—to a party hosted by a gay friend. Her grandmother's unexpected delight marked a touching moment. Donna, who spent her early years in Midwest America, had rare encounters with openly gay people. Choosing a military career in 1965, she faced her mother's concerns about stereotypes surrounding women in service. Nevertheless, Donna excelled, building an impressive 27-year military career, achieving high ranks, and traveling worldwide. Donna jokingly mentions how her military experience might have "brought her out," with Paulette playfully agreeing it "turned her out." Despite societal pressures, Donna followed her path—her mother's acceptance following suit.

Carrying on

For more than 30 years, The Aunties have passionately nurtured their land and engaged with their community. This love and commitment have inspired Charlyn and Jeannine's dreams about turning their short film "The Aunties" into a feature-length project, staying true with themes about triumph and community. As Griffith-Oro emphasizes, "Our story will highlight resilience and strength, steering clear from disenfranchisement narratives that queer stories often told." You can catch "The Aunties" on Black Public Media's YouTube channel, providing a glimpse at how love, mentorship, and intergenerational connections can transform lives in Black queer communities.