A Women Who Struggles With Life's Challenges

Date of interview: June 8,1999
Name or interviewer: Kaleisha Williams
Name or interviewee: Diane Reddie
Language of interview: English
 

When did you move to Philadelphia?

It was such a long time ago that I can't even remember but I think I moved here in November of 1971, and I really don't know the date.

Why did you leave your country/State/former place of residence?

I had to leave Mississippi because I was having problems with my job and problems with my husband.

Why did you choose Philadelphia?

I chose to move to Philadelphia because I had a close friend from high school who had been living in Philadelphia for the last four years, that said there were a lot of job opportunities and she would help me get my life back on track.

With whom did you travel?

I came to Philadelphia alone and [was] petrified because I didn't know what the future held for me.

How did your life change when you moved and what were the differences between the two places?

My life changed dramatically. I mean so many things happened to me while living in Mississippi.

What kind of things?

Things like when I was getting abused by my husband and then my best friend being diagnosed with cancer, and I always wanted to leave but I didn't know where [to go], so when my friend came to visit, and she asked if I would like to leave. For some strange reason I had to think about it, but she told me if I ever changed my mind I was always welcomed in her house. So two years later I decided to move to Philadelphia. I gave her a call and when I got there she helped me get settled and find a job and get an apartment. I couldn't be any happier.

Do you ever regret moving? Why or why not?

No I don't regret moving. I been in Philadelphia for 28 years and couldn't be happier.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yes, it was a great experience for the better, and I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to show my story.