Grier Family Reunion

Reunion History

     Black survival and other concerns of the day were pervasive and pressed heavily on the thoughts of those who attended the final rites of Troyit James Grier in Detroit, Michigan, on that bleak wintery day in January 1972. This coming together of family at a time of sorrow and mourning had a poignant significance. First, Troyit Grier had a strong love of family and had often fondly recalled the days of his youth, of homecoming and of family get- togethers. For many years he had spoken and hoped for a revival of the Family Reunion, the symbol of collective and individual strength, unity and togetherness. Secondly, there is a lesson for Black survival inherent in the acquired wisdom of the time and the learned experiences of yesterdays. The only one who could provide this bridge of historical continuity and articulate the message for the future, were our elders.

     The occasion of this funeral was a visible and shocking reminder that the ranks of family stalwarts and the vital link to our identity were being weakened by age and decimated by death.

     This was the stage and backdrop that shaped the mood, the thinking and the discussion of those present on that winter day. From the feeling of loss and aloneness was born the idea and commitment to revive the Family Reunion.

     It was hoped that the Family Reunion would be a visible and perpetual symbol. It stands as a momument to blood and kin, who had come, enriched our lives and passed on; a legacy to our young and yet unborn; a guide for survival and a measure of human excellence and perseverance.

     Since that day, we have come together as family many times to meet, greet, and involve ourselves in activities that express love and kinship. On each of these occasions, we know that you carried this messge back to your homes and communities: The Griers" are alive and doing well".