This month, host Kimberly Y. Erwin seeks to share much of what is still little known about the enslaved American. The population formerly referred to as American Slaves has enriched America in so many invaluable ways. Few have achieved their place in the historical spotlight, until now.

Joining Erwin on the show is Guest TALKer, Heidi L. Hill, who holds degrees from Binghamton University and the Cooperstown Graduate Program, is a distinguished historic site manager at Crailo and Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site (located in the Hudson River Valley). With a deep commitment to preserving diverse historical narratives, Ms. Hill actively dismantles traditional ones, fostering inclusivity for all cultures represented at the sites. For over two decades, her inclusive approach, demonstrated through innovative exhibitions and engaging programs, has successfully drawn a wider audience.

Through her stewardship at Crailo and Schuyler Mansion, Heidi has brought overlooked stories to the forefront, sparking profound discussions about the contemporary relevance of history. Central to her impactful leadership is a firm belief in the transformative power of diversity, showcasing the profound impact achieved by acknowledging and honoring the complexities inherent in our shared history. Her talk last year at the Hudson Area Library in which she expounded on the contributions of enslaved Americans in New York in relationship to the Schuyler estate was so insightful, the host of Race Talks® is excited to have her come on the show to impart such rich stories in celebration of Black History Month.

"Race Talks," hosted by intercultural communicator and author Kimberly Y. Erwin, provides expertise on the topic of race and ethnicity. With the national conversation in the media over racial inequity, ignorance or indifference is not a proper retreat. Erwin enjoys speaking with people from every walk of life, ethnic make-up, and varied perspectives to better instruct, engage, and inform listeners with positive and constructive conversations on all things race and ethnicity — which is very necessary to break down structural and societal racism. No topic is taboo. Here, listeners engage with the host, other expert guest educators, activists, organizers, and community members as they disseminate their knowledge (ie. varying terminologies, historical realities, and current opportunities for engagement) for a better informed, appreciative, and active local citizenry.

About the host

An educator, writer, and entrepreneur, Erwin enjoyed her studies as a Hudson High School graduate (attending her senior year at Columbia-Greene Community College) and graduated from Spelman College in Atlanta (noted the #1 Historical Black College and University by "U.S. News") where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and French. Upon receiving a Masters in Science degree from the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania, specializing in Intercultural Communication, Erwin ventured into the areas of international administration, multicultural leadership, and various teaching positions within the U.S. and globally.

Upon returning to Hudson Valley, Kimberly started a media company (OneUniversal Media) endeavoring to give voice to members in communities experiencing gross inequities who yearn to create common means of communicating and celebrating their identity while still challenging societal norms. Erwin is a founding member of Africa's Daughters of the Diaspora (ADD), She holds volunteer positions as a Hudson Area Library Trustee, an on-air programmer at WGXC-FM, and with the Hudson City School District (where her children's book was informed).