Second Edition -HispanoAmerica- A Shared Future conference speakers
Returning from the vibrant city of Madrid, I am still deeply moved by the profound experience of participating in the second edition of the Hispano-American Conference, “A Shared Future.” To stand in the esteemed Rafael del Pino Auditorium, a venue known for hosting insightful dialogues, and contribute to a discussion of such historical significance was an immense honor. As a Past President of the Button Gwinnett Chapter of the Georgia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, and the first African American member of the Georgia Society SAR, my presence on this international stage felt particularly poignant.
The conference, expertly organized by López-li Films, the Unidos por la Historia Association, and the Rafael del Pino Foundation, in collaboration with the International University of La Rioja, served as a powerful platform to explore the intricate and often overlooked connections between Spain and the Americas. The theme, “A Shared Future,” resonated deeply, prompting a vital re-examination of our collective past and its implications for our present and future relationships.
My participation centered on a panel discussion titled “Highlighting Hispanic Identities – Louisiana, Texas, and California.” It was a privilege to share a unique perspective rooted in my family’s history. This narrative intricately weaves together the threads of Spanish colonial Louisiana, the institution of slavery, and the burgeoning fight for American independence.
I recounted the remarkable story of my enslaved ancestor, Agnes, born in French Louisiana around 1759. Her journey toward freedom took a significant turn with the arrival of Spanish rule. My research unveiled the crucial role played by my fourth great-grandfather, Mathieu Devaux dit Platillo, a French national who pledged allegiance to Spain in 1769. Serving in the New Orleans Militia under the command of the dynamic Spanish Colonial Louisiana Governor, Bernardo de Gálvez, Mathieu Devaux was positioned to witness and potentially influence the events unfolding around him.
The true significance of this historical intersection lies in the manumission document that ultimately granted Agnes her freedom on December 16, 1779. This document bears the signature of Bernardo de Gálvez. To hold in my hands the tangible proof of my ancestor’s liberation, signed by a figure so instrumental in Spain’s support of the American Revolution, is an experience that defies adequate description.
Bernardo de Gálvez’s contributions to the American cause are often understated in mainstream narratives. His military campaigns in Spanish Colonial Louisiana, including the capture of Baton Rouge on Sept 21, 1779, just months before Agnes’s manumission, were crucial in diverting British resources and securing vital territory for the American Patriots. His leadership and the bravery of his forces, which included individuals like my ancestor Mathieu Devaux, directly aided the patriots in their fight for independence.
Sharing Agnes’s story at this conference in Madrid felt like bringing a hidden chapter of history to light. It underscored the complex tapestry of identities and experiences that shaped the Americas. It highlighted the agency of enslaved individuals, the interconnectedness of European powers in the colonial landscape, and the often-unacknowledged contributions of Spanish colonial figures to the very foundation of the United States.
The invitation to participate in this conference was an incredible honor. It signified a recognition of the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in understanding our shared history. To engage with scholars, historians, and individuals passionate about these transatlantic connections in such a prestigious setting was humbling and inspiring. The insightful questions and engaging discussions that followed my presentation reinforced the vital need for continued dialogue and exploration of these historical narratives.
I believe this conference holds significant implications for Spain’s ongoing efforts to accurately and comprehensively tell its story regarding its role in the founding and development of the Americas, particularly as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. By embracing the multifaceted narratives that emerged from, its colonial past, including the stories of enslaved individuals and the contributions of figures like Bernardo de Gálvez, Spain can offer a richer and more nuanced understanding of this pivotal historical period.
The “Shared Future” envisioned by the conference organizers necessitates a thorough and honest reckoning with our shared past. By acknowledging the complexities, the triumphs, and the injustices of this history, we can foster stronger and more informed relationships moving forward. The stories of individuals like Agnes and the actions of figures like Bernardo de Gálvez offer invaluable insights into the intricate web of historical forces that shaped the Americas.
My participation in the Hispano-American Conference in Madrid was more than just a presentation; it was a deeply personal journey of connecting with my ancestry on an international stage. It was an opportunity to contribute to a vital dialogue about our shared history and its enduring relevance. I am hopeful that the conversations sparked in Madrid will continue to resonate, paving the way for a more complete and inclusive understanding of the intertwined histories of Spain and the Americas as we look towards the significant commemoration of 2026.
The future, indeed, is shared, and it is enriched by a deeper understanding of our collective past.