In Memory of Hattie Mcdaniel

In Memory of Hattie McDaniel By Elton Camp Hattie McDaniel built her career playing a maid Back then, blacks were called “Shine” or “Spade” Recognition of her acting talent did finally begin With role of Mammy in “Gone With the Wind” Some criticized her for the roles she would accept For bigger parts, Miss McDaniel was well adept But as one of the few black actress who were around, For those who followed, she broke entirely new ground Parts for blacks in those days were really very few So she was willing to take what they’d let her do Yet in Atlanta where GWTW had its premier, Prejudiced folks wouldn’t allow her to come near Where she lived back in those segregated days, McDaniel showed great courage in many ways So for her pioneering work, we should say thanks She paved the way for others in the acting ranks