Local historian launches first graphic novel – Times Herald Online

As founder of Vallejo’s annual Bayard Rustin Symposium, Anna Bergman is no stranger to history-focused efforts.

It is through these efforts that Bergman strives to build community, spark conversations, and foster connections. Inspired by the works of iconic U.S. Representative John Lewis in his “March” trilogy, Bergman set out to create a historical comic book that would shed much-needed light on the story of one of the most influential members of the civil rights movement.

In her research, Bayard Rustin’s story undoubtedly stood out. As a prominent African-American novelist, LGBTQ+ activist, and civil rights advocate, Bergman was inspired by the wide range of people influenced by Rustin’s work.

“He’s reached people in the creative arts, in politics and in community organizations,” Bergman says. “He speaks to a lot of people.”

The book is based on Rustin’s series of articles, “22 Days on a Chain” and “Time on Two Crosses: The Complete Writings of Bayard Rustin.” Bergman’s gripping account of his prison time and eloquent essays provided a wealth of information.

“Rustin has always been very authentic,” Bergman says. “He reminds me of people I know. His work has not only established a platform for generations of people after him, but it has also inspired activists in their own fight against injustice.”

Throughout her activist journey, Rustin spoke of the common challenges and conflicts that can arise between people with a common cause, which Bergman has often identified with in her own activist work. Often, she says, “we get frustrated with each other, there can be drama, there can be problems, and seeing that in Rustin’s life taught me that I have to put the cause before myself and stay with people to find common ground.”

Inspired by his humility, the author was keen to weave a similar sense of vulnerability into the book’s plot. Bergman seeks to illustrate the challenges and personal feelings of defeat that Rustin often faced despite his status as a prominent leader. By analyzing such conflicts, which were sometimes “petty” as she describes them, “I think we learn by discovering the humanity of people” and, in the same sense, we become aware that we are all more alike than we think.

“I learn from the flaws of the people I admire, because if they are too perfect, I can’t relate to them,” she adds.

Looking for a like-minded artist to illustrate the book, their mutual friend and fellow artist, Age Scott, introduced Bergman to the talented futurist and member of the Black Speculative Arts Movement, Alan Saint Clark. Several of Clark’s stunning paintings from “CIVIL” have been featured at the Africa World Art Gallery in Washington, DC, and are currently on view at civilcomic.com.

By reading this book, Bergman hopes that readers will feel inspired to not only take a closer look at the history contained within its pages, but also to take a closer look at the history around them.

“I would like readers to be able to just talk to their elders and the people around them, but also follow their own curiosity,” Bergman said. “Just trust your own interests and if something interests you, learn more about it.”

To learn more about his work, Bergman will host a book signing at Ethnic Notions on September 28.