Meet Crystal Wilson | Founder and Director of ASE’ Academy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Wilson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
My lineage as I know began in Arkansas. Both of my parents grew up in a small town in Southeast Arkansas. They were a part of the second wave of those who migrated north due to better economic opportunites and life in general. When I was about ten, they decided to move back to Arkansas. The harsh winters in Wisconsin were the catalyst for that decision. I am very grateful that they did so. The small town of Montrose, Arkansas were still segregated in the early 80s and as I reflect on it, I realize that it was actually a safe space. It was more than a town, it was a village where people looked out for one another. My parents owned a small business that was the heart of the community. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel compelled to carry on the legacy of that business that was actually created by my maternal grandparents. BUT it has left a lasting impact on me.

As I continue to experience life, I often think about my rearing and how the community always invested in the community. As I focus on literacy in the Black community, I always remind us that we must remember and practice our tradition of “it take a village.” There are some traditions that must be retained.
  

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m super excited about the creation of ASE’ Academy. Many times Black people talk about what we weren’t taught or what our children aren’t taught in the tradtional public school system. With ASE’ Academy, we are teaching the academics and interpersonal skills as well. We look at the whole person so we can provide an holistic education.

This came about because of my work as a librarian. I found that many Black students are deficient in reading and that is because of the lack of exposure to books by, for and about Black people. And reading is the gateway to critical thinking skills.

We are still growing and developing and challenges come with the territory. Getting the Black community engaged and involved takes constant marketing. But because I know that this is my divine assignment, I do the work and keep moving.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The first stop will be our Cultural Center in Coldwater! This is our safe, liberating space where ASE’ Academy is housed. It has a library and our retail space, The Sankofa Soul Shoppe.

We’d hang out at Kemet Coffee and try a speciality drink like the Fannie Lou latte or the Marcus Mocha and depending on the time have a breakfast sandwich or sub.

For dinner, we’d go to Alma’s Kountry Kooking and have some wonderful soul food. I love the veggie plate.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Yes, definitely want to shout out my family! Not just my parents who have transitioned from the physical realm and other blood relatives, but the family that has been created with the work of Black liberation in mind, I call them my divine family.

Website: https://blackliberationmovement.com/ase-academy

Instagram: aseacademyms ; mslibrarylady40

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unlearningtoremember/

Youtube: @crystaldenise365