The Historic Goodbye
The Historic Goodbye: Losing a Loved One During a Pandemic
A film by Karla McKinney
Full Synopsis:
The life journey of an African American woman who was born, lived, and died during historic times. Ernestine Mann was born during a time that witnessed the rise of Hitler, the Great Depression, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights movement, and the emergence of successful blacks in society. In a case that garnered substantial media attention in Atlanta when Ernestine, who was a civic leader, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and a Spelman College graduate, became the 32nd person in GA, and the first to die at a well-regarded assisted living home. An ensuing NPR investigative story revealed alarming disparity in protocols stated but not fully executed at her facility. As the year 2025 marks the fifth anniversary of Covid-19, Ernestine Mann’s story not only serves as a testament to her individual journey (1936-2020), but also provides a platform to shed awareness on healthcare equity and community resilience during a historic worldwide pandemic. Her life, spanning significant historical events, serves as a poignant narrative amid unprecedented times. While her story holds personal significance, the broader themes of lasting legacies, courage, and inspiration depicted in the film resonate deeply with African American communities nationwide, as well as universally regardless of ethnicity to those concerned with healthcare disparities.
- Duration: 1:36:40
- Genre: Biographical Documentary , Historical Documentary
- Film by: Karla McKinney
