Janice. Janice. Janice. I highlighted almost the entirety of your essay. Alabama. It must be a pretty “sweet home” because it surely is the bullseye for racism.
I’ve got my own essay brewing. I’m in Dan Diego and it used to be a sleepy Navy town but it has morphed since Obama into a blue town with a gay mayor ( reelected) and environmental issues at the forefront. Naturally, it’s very expensive because of the beaches and weather. The natives are a bit restless but there is much to be thankful for.

Your history lesson is something I do not see much in Medium— original ideas and linked to history — personal, as well.
Bravo. Harper Lee would be proud to view you as a sister of HER South.

Robert