An Interview with Donzaleigh Abernathy
by George & Pam Singleton
We are met by a lovely young woman with a soft Southern lilt in her voice and warmth in her greeting. We'd heard of Donzaleigh Abernathy but did not have a high recognition factor, even though she is on TV's "Any Day Now." But we'll use as an excuse that she plays a 70-year-old woman and she's a long way from that in real life.
In the film "Gods and Generals" Ms Abernathy portrays Martha, a slave without a slave mentality. She has incredible passion for a film in which she has a small part, and for good reason. In a short period of time on-screen, Donzaleigh makes her presence felt in a memorable way. When supporting actors make a film unforgettable the film gains depth.
Donzaleigh speaks with the eloquence and confidence of someone who can call Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., "Uncle Martin" without bragging. King and her father Ralph Abernathy were true foot soldiers and leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.
In addition to acting, Donzaleigh is the author of a book called "Partners to History: Martin Luther King Jr., Ralph David Abernathy, and the Civil Rights Movement." To be published in October, it details the history of the Civil Rights movement via photographs and the words of the people who spoke them.
Donzaleigh Abernathy is making a living in the entertainment industry and she is also carrying on the family tradition by presenting information in various ways that both enlightens and entertains multiple generations on the role of blacks in the building of America.
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