We are All Antarctica: USAS

The Story

We are All Antarctica is a story about my father George W. Gibbs, Jr’s adventures as the first person of African descent to set foot on the continent of Antarctica. He sailed on the famous ship the USS Bear in 1939 to 1941 on Admiral Byrd’s III expedition to the South Pole. It was the first joint venture with the US military and private exploration. Gibbs went on to serve humanity in countless ways, paving the way for not only people of color in the community of Rochester, MN but for all people to become more human, serve their community and appreciate differences.

Through compassion, tenacity, faith and countless hours in the trenches, Gibbs’ life is a model for community service, equality and fun. As the lowest rank on the ship, he was honored for his contribution at a time when people with dark skin were considered less than human.

This story integrates my experiences with natural healing, the arts, the science of the ice, the metaphysics of the South Pole and the history of the expedition and its mystery.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Stories about George Gibbs, Jr.- News from the Rochester Post Bulletin

Today the Rochester Post Bulletin printed an article about my book progress. They highlight the challenges and opportunities I face, as a researcher and writer. Telling a historical story to make it relevant to today is my goal. I'm exploring his journals, papers and other expedition members information to create the story of Admiral Byrd's III expedition to the South Pole. It's a little known story that needs to have it's place in history.

In the actual newspaper, (not the online version), Mike Dougherty asks on my behalf, to send me stories and experiences about my father. George has many admirers, many of whom I've never met. Others have stories I've not heard.

If you knew him or know someone who had an experience, please email me with your experience at contact.leilani (AT) beingandliving.com. The moment the article came out, I received my first, heartfelt story. This is very exciting!

Monday, March 18, 2013

The USS Bear leaving for Antarctica

I'm celebrating today for two reasons: This is the Mayan day for the USS Bear ( Queen of the Polar seas and 'forerunner of modern icebreakers') leaving for Antarctica. The Gregorian date was November 22, 1939. But today is Deer, which is community service day, with the 13 being transcendence as well as, the last day of the Mayan week. Their weeks are 13 days long.

My goal is to continue to write and reflect on the six month journey the crew of the USAS experienced, beginning today. Any good wishes on finishing this book in the next six months, is appreciated!

The other reason to celebrate is I've already had the beginning of the first chapter translated into Japanese. Writing this book continues to feel like a huge challenge. I'm up for the task, anticipating days where I might want to 'go home', as George Gibbs, wrote in his journal.