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Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years
Tells the story of Sadie and Bessie Delany, two African-American (they preferred "colored") sisters who both lived past the age of 100. They grew up on a North Carolina college campus, the daughters of the first African-American Episcopal bishop, who was born a slave, and a woman with an inter-racial background. With the support of each other and their family, they survived encounters with racism and sexism in their own different ways. Sadie quietly and sweetly broke barriers to become the first African-American home-ec teacher in New York City, while Bessie, with her own brand of outspokenness, became the second African-American dentist in New York City. At the ages of 103 and 101, they told their story to Amy Hill Hearth, a white New York Times reporter who published an article about them. The overwhelming response launched a bestselling book, a Broadway play, and this film.
Insights
Plot Summary
This heartwarming made-for-television movie chronicles the extraordinary lives of Bessie and Sadie Delany, two African American sisters who lived well into their second century. The film depicts their experiences as educated women navigating racial prejudice and societal changes in America from the late 19th century through the 20th century. It highlights their resilience, intelligence, and enduring sisterhood as they recount their remarkable journeys.
Critical Reception
Having Our Say was widely praised for its powerful performances, historical significance, and inspiring portrayal of the Delany sisters' lives. Critics lauded the film for bringing their compelling story to a broader audience, celebrating their strength and longevity in the face of adversity. It was considered a poignant and important piece of television.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its touching performances and the sisters' inspiring resilience.
Appreciated for its historical insight into the African American experience.
Noted as a moving and important biographical drama.
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Awards & Accolades
Daphne Maxwell Reid and Mary Alice received NAACP Image Award nominations for their roles.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the best-selling autobiographical book of the same name by the Delany sisters and Amy Hill Hearth.
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