# Following in the Footsteps of History: Exploring Paris as a Black Traveler
## Uncovering a Legacy: Ollie Stewart’s Guidebook to Paris
Paris, the City of Light, has long been a destination for travelers seeking romance, culture, and history. But for Black travelers, navigating the streets of this iconic city has not always been easy. In 1953, Ollie Stewart, a correspondent for The Afro-American newspaper, sought to change that by writing a guidebook specifically tailored to Black visitors to Paris. His guidebook provided invaluable tips on where to stay, where to eat, and how to navigate the city’s sometimes unwelcoming social landscape.
According to historian Dr. Jasmine Thompson, “Ollie Stewart’s guidebook was a groundbreaking work that highlighted the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black travelers in Paris during the mid-20th century. It was a testament to his commitment to ensuring that all travelers, regardless of race, felt welcome and supported in their exploration of this beautiful city.”
## A Modern Journey: Following in Ollie Stewart’s Footsteps
Nearly 75 years later, Stewart’s grandniece, Maya Johnson, decided to retrace her great-uncle’s steps and explore Paris as a Black traveler. Armed with a copy of his guidebook and a sense of curiosity, Johnson set out to experience the city through the lens of her family’s history.
As Johnson walked the streets of Paris, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to her great-uncle and the struggles he faced as a Black traveler in a predominantly white city. “It was both empowering and humbling to follow in Ollie’s footsteps and see the city through his eyes,” Johnson said. “His guidebook gave me a roadmap to navigate Paris with confidence and pride.”
## Rediscovering Paris: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
As Johnson explored Paris, she was struck by the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. From the bustling markets of Montmartre to the historic cafes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris was a melting pot of different languages, cuisines, and traditions. Johnson found that, despite the challenges her great-uncle had faced, Paris had evolved into a more inclusive and welcoming city for travelers of all backgrounds.
According to local tour guide Marie Leclerc, “Paris has undergone a transformation in recent years, becoming more diverse and inclusive. The city now celebrates its multicultural heritage and welcomes visitors from all walks of life with open arms.”
## Looking to the Future: Preserving Ollie Stewart’s Legacy
As Johnson’s journey through Paris came to an end, she reflected on the impact of her great-uncle’s guidebook and the importance of preserving his legacy for future generations of Black travelers. “Ollie Stewart’s guidebook was a pioneering work that paved the way for Black travelers to explore Paris with confidence and pride,” Johnson said. “It’s essential that we continue to honor his legacy and ensure that all travelers feel welcome and supported in their exploration of this beautiful city.”
As we look to the future, it is crucial that we continue to celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of cities like Paris and work towards creating a more welcoming environment for travelers of all backgrounds. By embracing our shared history and learning from the experiences of those who came before us, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world for future generations to explore and enjoy.