Mississippi Transplant: Kevin Brown
"For me, home means the place that I’m invested in...I’m invested in my work and relationships that I developed in the community here in Mississippi."
What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Today we hear from Kevin Brown who moved to McComb after retiring from the Air Force. Looking for opportunities to serve, he founded Gertrude’s Garden, a community garden in the historic Burglund neighborhood, and has since published two children’s books that feature his neighborhood.
Where are you from?
Born in Hammond, Louisiana.
When did you move to Mississippi and why did you move here?
I moved to McComb, Mississippi, in 2018. I relocated to Mississippi after military retirement (US Air Force). I moved to Mississippi primarily due to family connections in the area.
What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?
For me, home means the place that I’m invested in. It provides a sense of peace and purpose. I’m invested in my work and relationships that I developed in the community here in Mississippi.
The people who have made me feel the most rooted here are actually other transplants. Engaging and understanding each other's story, background and common values often provides a bridge for communication and fellowship.
What do you miss most about the place where you’re from?
The thing that I miss most from where I grew up would be South Louisiana cuisine and music.
How have you cultivated a community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?
I’ve cultivated a community by being curious about the local culture and customs and being open to learning new things. The people who have made me feel the most rooted here are actually other transplants. Engaging and understanding each other's story, background and common values often provides a bridge for communication and fellowship. I have had the pleasure of developing relationships with different organizations such as various school districts, non-profits, and community stakeholders.
What’s the weirdest question or assumption you’ve encountered about Mississippi (or about you as a Mississippian) by someone who’s never been here?
I think the most common assumption is that it’s completely rural. There are plenty of rural areas but there are also towns and cities that have unique experiences to offer.
How has living in Mississippi affected your identity and your life’s path?
Living in Mississippi has given me an appreciation for its culture and people.
What is something that you’ve learned about Mississippi only by living here? In what ways has Mississippi lived up to your expectations?
I’ve learned a lot about its history and way of life that can only be experienced by living here. I’ve been able to engage in the agriculture experience of Mississippi through my work in Gertrude’s Garden, a community garden in the Burglund district in McComb, MS.
Have you ever thought about moving away? Does a sense of duty keep you rooted here? Do you have a “tipping point”?
I have considered moving. I believe the people and purpose keep me rooted.
For me, home means the place that I’m invested in.
What do you wish the rest of the country understood about Mississippi?
I wish for the rest of the country to understand the culture, the history, and traditions.
Do you have a favorite Mississippi writer, artist, or musician who you think everyone needs to know about?
Yes, Castro “Mr. Sipp” Coleman, a McComb native. Mississippi has a rich blues music legacy and he does a great job of carrying the torch for this state’s rich musical legacy. My favorite Mississippi writer is Rosalin Landrews. The title of her book is What's The Connection?: A Reflection Guide for Clarity, Self-Preservation and Empowerment.
If you had one billion dollars to invest in Mississippi, how would you spend your money?
I would invest in youth education and economic development systems. Education and tech hubs throughout the state.
What or who do you want to shamelessly promote? (It can absolutely be a project you’re working on, or something you are involved in.)
I am the founder of Gertrude’s Garden, a Burglund Community Garden in McComb, MS. Gertrude’s Garden serves as a beacon of inspiration in the Burglund neighborhood of McComb. In addition to plants, public art, and programming such as art, yoga, and horseback riding are offered to the youth of the community. I’d also like to highlight two organizations where I serve as a board member: the Black History Gallery and the Southwest Mississippi Multiplex for Early Innovation Intervention Studies.
A garden is such a great way to bring a community together for meaningful work and play!