*** Registration for this event is on a first-come-first-served basis so please register as soon as possible. Pay in full or make a non-refundable deposit to hold your spot. ***
The Black Death, Grief and Cultural Care Academy invites you to join us for an intimate cultural immersion excursion Tuesday, May 20th 2025 through Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 in beautiful Beaufort, South Carolina.
Beaufort, South Carolina is apart of the heart of the Gullah and Geechee culture. We chose Beaufort, South Carolina not only because it is geographically our home; but because it is the home to much of the Black Diaspora here in the United States. Beaufort is also home to many modern end of life, death, burial and home going rituals and spiritual practices of African Americans. This is credited to the fact that the Sea Islands of South Carolina, The Gullah Geechee corridor is where the majority of enslaved African peoples were bought, sold, and dispersed throughout the Americas and surrounding countries.
According to the Gullah Geechee Heritage Corridor Commission website, "the Gullah Geechee people are descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the rice, indigo and Sea Island cotton plantations of the lower Atlantic coast. Many came from the rice-growing region of West Africa. The nature of their enslavement on isolated island and coastal plantations created a unique culture with deep African retentions that are clearly visible in the Gullah Geechee people’s distinctive arts, crafts, foodways, music, and language."
Day 1 Once you've arrived, checked in and relaxed, it will be time to head to registration where you will receive your welcome packet and participate in a meet and greet / group ice breaker activity over dinner at one of our local seafood restaurants. (This meal is not included as a part of your experience).
Day 2 We will take a step back in time to learn about the history and importance of the land of historic downtown Beaufort and have lunch at The Smokehouse BBQ. After lunch we will explore and learn about the vibrant and vitally important marine life of our area. We will end the day dancing, eating and enjoying a private sunset cruise.
*** This days itinerary is subject to change due to weather. Updates will be provided if this is the case.***
Day 3 After breakfast at the hotel, we will explore the historic St. Helena Island, visiting our nations first school for freed slaves and learning about Beaufort's military history. We will end our immersion experience celebrating our journey together by embracing the Spirit of the Ancestors through the mediums of musical performance, story telling, gleaning the wisdom of our community elders and indulging in authentic local Gullah cuisine.
"Kum ba ya" which means come by here; and experience the rich and deeply rooted essence of the Gullah Geechee people.
***Travel and hotel accommodations is NOT included in the cost of registration. ***
Please see the list below for flight, hotel and rental car information that may be helpful when making your travel arrangements. Unfortunately, there are no group rates or discounts at this time. Due to our historical richness, laid back Southern hospitality and great weather, Beaufort and surrounding areas are year round tourist attractions. It is strongly advised that you secure your travel reservations as soon as possible. Registration is very limited.
Hotel
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Holiday Inn Suites Beaufort
Public Airports
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
Charleston International Airport
Hilton Head Airport
Private Airport
Beaufort Executive Airport
Rental Cars
Enterprise
Avis
Please contact Joe'l via email at [email protected] if you have any questions or need to register a large group of 5 or more.
Beaufort, South Carolina is apart of the heart of the Gullah and Geechee culture. We chose Beaufort, South Carolina not only because it is geographically our home; but because it is the home to much of the Black Diaspora here in the United States. Beaufort is also home to many modern end of life, death, burial and home going rituals and spiritual practices of African Americans. This is credited to the fact that the Sea Islands of South Carolina, The Gullah Geechee corridor is where the majority of enslaved African peoples were bought, sold, and dispersed throughout the Americas and surrounding countries.
According to the Gullah Geechee Heritage Corridor Commission website, "the Gullah Geechee people are descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the rice, indigo and Sea Island cotton plantations of the lower Atlantic coast. Many came from the rice-growing region of West Africa. The nature of their enslavement on isolated island and coastal plantations created a unique culture with deep African retentions that are clearly visible in the Gullah Geechee people’s distinctive arts, crafts, foodways, music, and language."
Day 1 Once you've arrived, checked in and relaxed, it will be time to head to registration where you will receive your welcome packet and participate in a meet and greet / group ice breaker activity over dinner at one of our local seafood restaurants. (This meal is not included as a part of your experience).
Day 2 We will take a step back in time to learn about the history and importance of the land of historic downtown Beaufort and have lunch at The Smokehouse BBQ. After lunch we will explore and learn about the vibrant and vitally important marine life of our area. We will end the day dancing, eating and enjoying a private sunset cruise.
*** This days itinerary is subject to change due to weather. Updates will be provided if this is the case.***
Day 3 After breakfast at the hotel, we will explore the historic St. Helena Island, visiting our nations first school for freed slaves and learning about Beaufort's military history. We will end our immersion experience celebrating our journey together by embracing the Spirit of the Ancestors through the mediums of musical performance, story telling, gleaning the wisdom of our community elders and indulging in authentic local Gullah cuisine.
"Kum ba ya" which means come by here; and experience the rich and deeply rooted essence of the Gullah Geechee people.
***Travel and hotel accommodations is NOT included in the cost of registration. ***
Please see the list below for flight, hotel and rental car information that may be helpful when making your travel arrangements. Unfortunately, there are no group rates or discounts at this time. Due to our historical richness, laid back Southern hospitality and great weather, Beaufort and surrounding areas are year round tourist attractions. It is strongly advised that you secure your travel reservations as soon as possible. Registration is very limited.
Hotel
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Holiday Inn Suites Beaufort
Public Airports
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
Charleston International Airport
Hilton Head Airport
Private Airport
Beaufort Executive Airport
Rental Cars
Enterprise
Avis
Please contact Joe'l via email at [email protected] if you have any questions or need to register a large group of 5 or more.