Interview with G. A. Childs, June 18, 1987

Interview Summary

In his second interview for the Blacks in Lexington Oral History Project, Rev. Childs focusses on the African American community, the progress to date and the challenges still to be faced. He enumerates the results gained in the 1960's by an organized and united citizenry and discusses how these gains impacted business, politics, housing, transportation and employment. Rev. Childs voices his concern over the apathy infecting the African American community and the damage this causes: the lack of leadership, the unwillingness to "rock the boat", the disappearing interest of the younger generation for their neighborhoods; and, the loss of focus evidenced by increasing self involvement over community.
Rev. Childs reflects upon Shiloh Baptist Church and the past difficulties overcome by the congregation; reiterates the importance of African American seminaries; and comments upon the history and importance of music to the African American church. He recalls his service at Shiloh: family reaction to his appointment, present day congregational support, new building construction and community outreach services offered, his long battle for acceptance and the friendships forged over time. While discussing his family's leadership within the Kentucky Association of Baptists, Rev. Childs comments upon his philosophy of service. He remarks upon the differences he has discovered between the African American and white churches in organizational control, congregational involvement in the actual service, religious rituals and freedom of expression.
Rev. Childs alludes to his political support for Harvey Sloan; talks about Jesse Jackson and Brereton Jones' campaigns for political office; comments upon the relationship he has with the mayor and discloses the lack of support he has received from other African American ministers.

Interview Keyword

African Americans African Americans in Lexington Lexington, Kentucky Race relations

Interview LC Subject

African American families African Americans--Civil rights--Kentucky African Americans--Education--Kentucky--Lexington African Americans--Kentucky--Lexington--Economic conditions African Americans--Race identity. African Americans--Religion African Americans. Childs, G.A. Childs, G.A.--Interviews

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.