To Dream in Helena provides a poignant account of a community of Black people fighting for survival and for a better wat of life for their children during the post-depression, early World War II years in a rural Arkansas town.
During this period difficult econic times were faced by most residents living in the area, both Black and White. However, for Black People, who had to contend with long-standing poverty, inadequate employment opportunities, and schools that were not expected to provide a proper educational environment for their children, the odds were stacked against them.
In spite of these obstacles, and the ever-present difficulties centered around race, the Black community would not succumb to what appeared to be inevitable. The Black community , parents, non-parents, clergy and businessmen, came together and coalesced around the idea that there was hope. The home, the church and the schools united in an effort designed to overcome the debilitating effects of racism and segregation, which they knew could destroy the hopes and the aspirations of the young people living in the community.
The author, Dr. John O. Gibson, who lived the story, pulls no punches as he describes the strengths and the weaknesses of those involved, along with their dedication, and their resolve to make sure their children would look to the future with the belief that they could survive and prosper.