The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story reframes American history by centering the legacy of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans, beginning with the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619. Created by journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, the book argues that slavery and its aftermath are foundational to the nation’s laws, culture, and systems. Through essays, poems, and stories, it explores how Black Americans have fought for freedom and democracy, shaping the U.S. in profound ways.

According to the book “The 1619 Project” the White Lion was the first slave ship to arrive in the United States. It arrived in Virginia in late August, 1619 and spawned centuries of horror. This simple fact was the inspiration for my quilt “Original Sin” which I made in response to a call for banned book quilts.

I love to include words in my quilts, and I have used the crossword motif in the past to explicitly tell a story in my quilts. I chose a blue ad white palette inspired by the cover of the book. The word choices spell out the story I am telling.

“Original Sin” measures 53 X 70 inches. I used fused machine applique to create the words. My friend Maxine Moore quilted “Original Sin in a wavy pattern to carry out the theme of the quilt of a ship sailing to America.

The back of the quilt is a blue and cream African print. I added a hanging sleeve on the back for easy display and a label that documents the quilt.

I signed it on the front and added a charm that says “Live Free”. I love the stark simplicity of this quilt.