My grandfather Lowell Robert Smith's influence has sparked an all-consuming passion in me to research my lineage. He shared his own experiences of exploring our heritage, warning me of the challenges but also the unexpected moments of connection and discovery that come with it. I honor his memory, as well as that of my grandmother, whom I share my given name with, Ella, aka Mom.

My grandfather Lowell Robert Smith's influence has sparked an all-consuming passion in me to research my lineage. He shared his own experiences of exploring our heritage, warning me of the challenges but also the unexpected moments of connection and discovery that come with it. I honor his memory, as well as that of my grandmother, whom I share my given name with, Ella, aka Mom.