The Iberia African American Historical Society (IAAHS) is pleased to announce the launch of History Tables, a new community initiative designed to bring neighbors together for meaningful, informal conversations about the African American history of Iberia Parish and surrounding communities.
Beginning Sat., March 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., History Tables will meet every 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Rather than gathering in one fixed location, the initiative is intentionally designed to meet the community where people already gather. The first table will meet at Da Berry Fresh Market (520 S. Hopkins St., New Iberia).
“History belongs to all of us,” said Dr. Phebe A. Hayes, Founder and President of the Iberia African American Historical Society. “History Tables creates space for neighbors to sit together, listen to one another, and better understand the true and inclusive history of our community. Everyone has a seat at the table.”
What is History Tables:
History Tables provide residents with the opportunity to engage in open, respectful dialogue about local African American history: Research that has been uncovered and how that history continues to influence our lives today. These gatherings are intentionally informal and discussion-based, creating a welcoming environment where neighbors can learn from one another while exploring the shared history of our community.
Participants are encouraged to purchase refreshments from our hosting merchant but also welcome to bring their coffees, teas, juices.
Open to All:
All who are interested in the history of African Americans of Iberia Parish are welcome to attend at no charge. No formal background in history is required, only interest and a willingness to participate in civil, respectful conversation.
Because seating is limited and conversations are designed to remain small and interactive, pre-registration is required. Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 10 participants per session. Interested participants can register online.
The specific location for each gathering will be announced in advance.
Event Locations:
Plans are to host the History Tables throughout Iberia Parish — including Jeanerette, Lydia, Patoutville, Morbihan, Olivier, and other communities — so that residents across the parish have opportunities to participate.
Examples of meeting locations include Da’ Berry Market (Hopkins Street), Annointed Soul Food Restaurant (Iberia Street), the IAAHS Center for Research & Learning (2nd floor, The Shadows Visitors Center), community coffee shops, local churches, libraries, and other public spaces around Iberia Parish.
These gathering places are not limited only to the city of New Iberia. Future Tables will meet where possible in the rural communities of Iberia (e.g., Jeanerette, Olivier, Morbihan, Grand Marais, Neco Town, Loreauville, Freetown, Patoutville).
(Updated 3/9/26)
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