The perception of Appalachia is often shaped by narratives like J.D. Vance’s “Hillbilly Elegy.” But do these stories truly reflect the region and its families?
Riley Crabtree, Columbus Dispatch
J.D. Vance at RNC
J.D. Vance, the Republican Vice Presidential nominee, delivering a speech at the Republican National Convention.
Like many from Ohio, I’ve followed the career of J.D. Vance, especially after his memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” gained national attention. As someone rooted in Appalachian Ohio, one of the 32 counties defining Ohio’s Appalachian region, I was drawn to Vance’s book, expecting a genuine portrayal of our community. Growing up near the West Virginia and Kentucky borders, the term “hillbilly” isn’t foreign to me; it’s part of our identity. However, Vance’s narrative struck a discordant note. His family’s background in Middletown, Ohio, a city significantly larger and more removed from the heart of Appalachia than towns like Jackson near my hometown, already suggested a different perspective. While Vance spent summers in Kentucky, his primary upbringing wasn’t within the Appalachian heartland, contrasting sharply with the experiences of families deeply embedded in the region for generations.
The Appalachian Image Problem: Beyond J.D. Vance’s Lens
Reading “Hillbilly Elegy,” I felt a profound disconnect from Vance’s depiction of Appalachia. Instead of showcasing the resilience and rich culture of Appalachian families, Vance seemed to emphasize an image of a community defined by its problems, a place to escape rather than to cherish and improve. His portrayal often leaned into stereotypes, suggesting Appalachians lacked ambition, were mired in self-pity, and were unwilling to work hard, all while battling substance abuse. This perspective, while acknowledging challenges like substance abuse and poverty prevalent in Appalachia due to the decline of industries like coal mining and timber harvesting, felt incomplete and unfairly generalized.
It’s crucial to understand the context of Appalachia’s struggles. The departure of major industries left communities vulnerable, grappling with economic hardship and its subsequent social issues. However, Vance’s memoir seemed to offer a simplistic solution: military service and elite education as the only path to success, implying a lack of effort on the part of those who remain in Appalachia. This narrative overlooks the systemic barriers and lack of opportunities that hinder upward mobility for many Appalachian families. Unlike Vance’s seemingly straightforward path, most Appalachians face significant hurdles in securing stable, well-paying careers that can support their families. This is not a reflection of a lack of desire or work ethic, but rather a consequence of limited investment and resources within the region.
J.D. Vance at RNC
A family gathering in Appalachian Ohio, reflecting the close-knit community spirit often overlooked in broader narratives.
Real Appalachian Families: Seeking Opportunity, Not Escape
The truth about Appalachia is far more nuanced. Appalachian families aren’t seeking escape; they are seeking opportunity within their communities. They desire investment in their region, a chance to build and thrive where their roots are. While J.D. Vance has initiated a start-up fund aimed at regional businesses, a more comprehensive approach is needed. Appalachians are eager for job training, improved educational resources, social programs, and recreational facilities – elements that foster community growth and individual potential. Crucially, they seek industries willing to recognize the inherent value and vibrant culture of the region and invest in its future.
Many Appalachian families, like mine, have experienced firsthand the economic shifts and lack of opportunities. My grandparents worked tirelessly in factories facing constant closures, and my parents, despite their aspirations, couldn’t afford college educations. Yet, there was no lack of effort or ambition within my family or community. Instead, there was a deep-seated desire for upward mobility and a strong sense of community. My upbringing in Appalachia was filled with positive experiences, from the joy of music, like my papaw playing the banjo, to the warmth of close family bonds and a supportive community. These are the images of Appalachia that resonate with me, a stark contrast to the often-negative stereotypes perpetuated in broader media and narratives. As I embark on my career, I carry with me the values and spirit of the Appalachia I know and love – a region deserving of recognition for its strengths and a future filled with opportunity.
