In a recent episode of the PBS series Finding Your Roots, LeVar Burton, best known as the former host of Reading Rainbow and a passionate literacy advocate, had a profound and enlightening experience. The episode delved into Burton's familial background, particularly his estranged relationship with his father, Levardis Robert Martyn Burton.
After his parents' divorce when he was just 11 years old, Burton and his father had been separated for decades. However, host Henry Louis Gates, Jr. revealed a surprising connection between Burton and his paternal side of the family that shed light on the common ground they shared.
Burton discovered that both his grandfather, Aaron C. Burton, and great grandfather, Pearl B. Burton, served as school superintendents. Pearl, in particular, devoted much of his adult life to working in schools and played a pivotal role in establishing a public school for African American children in Osceola, Arkansas, during a time when a significant portion of the Black population in the state was illiterate.
Gates explained to Burton that he inherited this educational heritage from his father, despite the absence in his life following their estrangement. Learning about his great great grandfather, who served as a representative in the Arkansas General Assembly thanks to the Reconstruction Act of 1867, further highlighted the profound legacy of education within his paternal line.
Upon receiving this information, Burton expressed his overwhelming excitement. As a lifelong advocate for literacy, he was ecstatic to discover this integral part of his family history. He emphasized the significance of this knowledge, acknowledging that the absence of family stories often leaves Black people feeling disconnected from their roots. Burton's mother, Erma Gene Christian, had not shared the trials and tribulations she faced, attempting to protect her children. However, this left them in the dark about their true identity, leaving pieces of themselves missing.
Burton had always attributed his love for reading to his mother, who was a dedicated high school English teacher. In fact, his decision to host the renowned PBS Kids series, Reading Rainbow, for over two decades was a heartfelt tribute to her memory. But discovering the prominent role education played in his paternal line was an immense revelation for the Star Trek: The Next Generation actor.
This newfound understanding left Burton feeling overwhelmed. He expressed deep gratitude for the information unearthed about his family heritage, realizing that it would reverberate within him for a long time. The power of these revelations underscores the importance of preserving and sharing family stories, as they provide a sense of wholeness and identity.
LeVar Burton's journey on Finding Your Roots serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the profound impact it can have on generations. His story is a testament to the significance of understanding our roots and the connections that can be forged across time. By embracing our familial history and sharing these stories, we can honor the past while shaping a brighter future.
