Jun 9, 2020
Vince was born on a cotton plantation in Haywood County in West
Tennessee to parents who, at the time, were sharecroppers. Through
hard work and faith in Jesus Christ, his father prospered in the
insurance industry, pulling himself and his seven siblings out of
poverty and into the middle class. The Ellison Family gospel
singing group was formed when Vince was in grade school. The group
continued performing through his college years with broad exposure
in the Black Church and gospel music community. Through his
experiences in gospel music, Vince gained intimate knowledge of the
inner workings and failings of many of the Black Ministers in the
Black Church.
Vince studied academically at Memphis State University; however, he
received a real-world education while working as a correctional
officer at a maximum-security prison in South Carolina. Vince later
worked in the non-profit arena with many African American civic
organizations. He experienced the underworld of politics in 2000
after becoming the Republican nominee in the 6th Congressional
District of South Carolina.
These many life experiences have given Vince a unique insight. From
this vantage point, he has been able to recognize, dissect, expose,
and answer many of the questions regarding race, religion, and
politics that have dogged America for years. His books, blogs,
interviews, and podcasts share required knowledge for all Americans
who desire understanding, reconciliation, and freedom.