Every remarkable story begins with a thread of perseverance and an unexpected twist of fate. For many, a Navy veteran brings to mind bravery and honor on the open sea. But what happens when that veteran trades their uniform for a camera? Denetra Hampton, Navy veteran, has embarked on an inspiring journey that resulted in the placement of a historical landmark for three unknown civil rights nursing icons.
The Call of Duty: A Navy Veteran's Background
Her journey commenced as an enlisted sailor at U.S Naval Facility, Naples, Italy working in Information Systems and ended 22-years later at Portsmouth Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, Va., as a Lieutenant in the United States Naval Nurse Corps. After more than two decades of service, Denetra's experience ranges from fifteen years of Naval Intelligence to eight years of serving in patient care before retiring.
As Denetra stepped into this new chapter, she found herself not only pursuing professional goals but also engaging in a profound exploration of her values, beliefs, and passions. This transition was not just a professional shift; it symbolized the beginning of something personal and divine. It marked a pivotal moment in the journey of self-discovery and growth. The decision to embrace this new path was not made lightly; it was the culmination of years of learning and unlearning.
In this context, the transition became a transformative experience, where the merging of the personal and the divine led to a deeper understanding of her place in the world. The challenges faced along the way were not seen as obstacles but rather as opportunities for growth and empowerment.
According to Denetra, "It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most significant changes come from within, guiding us toward a destiny that feels both authentic and sacred."
The Vision Takes Shape
Denetra's storytelling began with the unlikely crossing of a story about African American nurses who helped with the cure of tuberculosis at Seaview Hospital in Staten Island, New York back in the 1940's. Those nurses are legendarily known as THE BLACK ANGELS. Denetra met and told the story in a documentary on Black Angel, Marjorie Tucker Reed in 2018. This experience led to the film on THE DIXIE 3.
As each project came to life, it attracted collaborations with academic institutions, libraries and historians. Their insights added depth and authenticity, allowing Denetra to craft a narrative tapestry honoring those in the health sciences while offering viewers a glimpse into the realities of inequities. In addition, Denetra has completed six documentaries and numerous storytelling projects advancing the health sciences.
Filmmaking as a Means of Education
Documentaries have the power to entertain as well as inform. Denetra recognized this dual purpose, using her storytelling to educate audiences about significant but often overlooked aspects of history. Through meticulous research, she uncovered untold stories like that of THE DIXIE 3, who advocated for civil rights and equality for humanity.
Investing countless hours in interviews and research, Denetra has gathered vivid accounts from nurses, historians, and family members. This process helped build a knowledge repository serving as both an educational tool and a tribute to those who have contributed to the health sciences.
Turning Documentary into A Historical Landmark
It was 2020, while doing other research, Denetra ran across an article talking about three nurses who staged a sit-in at Dixie Hospital in Hampton, Va. She knew this was her next film. With a script completed and a motivated crew on board, the project entered production. Filming took place at her studio, FNBN Studios. All backdrops and settings for the documentary were created at her production company. Soon, the cast came together with Melanie Outlaw, RN portraying Mildred Smith, Angela Mitchell, RN as Agnes Stokes-Chisman and T-Wanda Lowery, RN as Patricia Taylor McKenzie.
The filming process was about more than just capturing footage; it aimed to create a strong bond with the community. Denetra knew this was a sensitive story and wanted to capture emotions and reality through history. Every choice made amplified the narrative.
The Premiere and Its Impact
On February 22, 2022, the documentary, The Dixie 3: A Story On Civil Rights in Nursing, premiered in their hometown at the Hampton History Museum, generating palpable excitement within the community. Many attendees were nurses, educators and healthcare workers, eager to see stories that mirrored their experiences.
The screening sparked conversations—tales of sacrifice and heroism resonated deeply, rejuvenating the community's appreciation for history. Feedback indicated that not only had the story not been heard of but people wanted to know more.
Establishing a Historical Landmark
The film’s impact extended far beyond the premiere. Inspired by the documentary, local and national academics, libraries and museums asked to screen the film and hold candid conversation about the plight of THE DIXIE 3. What began as a film project evolved into a movement to honor the sacrifice of nurses both materially and symbolically.
Now on January 4, 2025, a historical marker stands not just as a tribute to bravery but as a reminder of the powerful role film can play in uniting and educating people. It serves as an important gathering place, allowing future generations to reflect on sacrifices made and the stories that shaped history.
An Inspiring Journey Forward
The transformation from a Navy veteran to a filmmaker who helped create a historical landmark underscores the power of passion and storytelling. By blending lessons learned in service with a commitment to the arts, Denetra has created a pathway that can inspire others.
Every film can share a story, and through the lens of a camera, history comes alive.
As we reflect on this inspiring journey, may we all discover our unique ways to contribute to history—be it through storytelling, advocacy, or service. The journeys we embark on shape the futures of others, reminding us that every story, including yours, is valuable.
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