national museum of african american history and culture

Establishment of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, with the purpose of documenting and preserving the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the United States. The museum was a long-awaited addition to the Smithsonian Institution, which had previously lacked a dedicated space for showcasing African American history and culture.

The idea for the NMAAHC dates back to the early 20th century when black leaders first proposed a national museum to celebrate their contributions to American society. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that serious efforts were made to establish such an institution. In 1988, Congress passed legislation authorizing planning for the museum, but it took another decade before funding was secured.

In 2001, President George W. Bush signed legislation approving construction of the NMAAHC on a five-acre site on the National Mall in Washington D.C., near other iconic institutions like the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and National Air and Space Museum. The museum officially opened its doors on September 24th, 2016.

The Mission of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The mission of NMAAHC is “to provide for research into the life, history, and culture of African Americans; to promote excellence in scholarship; and to disseminate knowledge about African Americans as widely as possible.” The museum aims to tell a comprehensive story about African American history from slavery through present-day achievements across various fields like politics, sports, music, art, literature, science and technology.

The NMAAHC also seeks to foster greater understanding between people from different backgrounds by promoting dialogue around issues related to race and racism in America. Through its exhibitions, educational programs, public events, publications and digital platforms, the museum strives to inspire and educate visitors about the many contributions of African Americans to American society.

Key Figures Involved in the Creation of the Museum

The creation of NMAAHC was a collaborative effort that involved many individuals and organizations. Key figures in its establishment include:

• Lonnie G. Bunch III: Founding Director of NMAAHC, who oversaw its planning, fundraising, and construction.
• John Lewis: Civil Rights leader and former U.S. Representative from Georgia who played a major role in advocating for the museum’s creation.
• Laura Bush: Former First Lady who supported the museum’s establishment and attended its opening ceremony.
• The Smithsonian Institution: The world’s largest museum complex, which houses NMAAHC and provided resources for its construction and operation.
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture Council: A group of scholars, activists, artists, and philanthropists who advised on the museum’s content and direction.

Location of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is located on Constitution Avenue NW between 14th Street NW and 15th Street NW on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The building is situated near other Smithsonian museums like the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden among others.

The location was chosen because it is one of the most prominent public spaces in America where millions visit each year to learn about US history. It also sits at a historic site as it is close to where enslaved Africans were brought into the country during colonial times.

The design for NMAAHC’s building was inspired by Yoruban art from West Africa and was created by a team of architects led by David Adjaye, who drew on the rich history and culture of African Americans to create a building that reflects their resilience and creativity.

Floors at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is divided into five floors, each with its own exhibits that explore different aspects of African American history and culture. The floors are as follows:

• Concourse level: This floor houses the museum’s welcome center, gift shop, café, and theater. Visitors can also access the museum’s collections storage area, where they can see some of the millions of artifacts not currently on display.
• History Galleries: These galleries cover three floors (below ground level) and trace the history of African Americans from slavery to present day. Exhibits include topics like “Slavery and Freedom,” “Segregation,” “Civil Rights,” “Black Power” among others.
• Culture Galleries: These galleries occupy two floors above ground level and showcase various aspects of African American life including music, sports, literature, visual arts among others. Exhibits include topics like “Musical Crossroads,” “Making a Way Out Of No Way,” “Power of Place” among others.

Exhibits Featured at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture features over 36,000 artifacts across its various exhibits. Some notable exhibits include:

• The Slavery & Freedom exhibit: This exhibit explores the origins of slavery in America through its abolition during the Civil War era. It features objects like slave shackles, auction blocks, letters from enslaved people among others.
• The Emmett Till Memorial: This exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy who was brutally murdered in Mississippi in 1955. The exhibit includes a glass-topped casket that once held Till’s body, as well as photographs and other artifacts related to his life and death.
• The Sports Gallery: This exhibit celebrates the achievements of African American athletes across various sports including basketball, football, baseball among others. It features objects like Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves, Michael Jordan’s sneakers among others.
• The Musical Crossroads exhibit: This exhibit explores the history of African American music from its roots in Africa through its evolution into various genres like jazz, blues, gospel and hip hop. It features objects like Louis Armstrong’s trumpet, Chuck Berry’s guitar among others.

Significance of Location on the National Mall

The location of NMAAHC on the National Mall is significant because it provides a prominent platform for showcasing African American history and culture to millions of visitors each year. The museum is situated near other iconic institutions like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, which are symbols of America’s founding principles.

Moreover, by being located on the National Mall, NMAAHC has become part of a larger conversation about what it means to be an American and how we can work together to create a more just and equitable society.

Duration to Build the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The construction process for NMAAHC took over four years from groundbreaking in February 2012 to opening day in September 2016. The museum was designed by David Adjaye and his team at Adjaye Associates with lead architect Philip Freelon.

The building process involved many challenges including excavation below ground level where water levels were high due to proximity to Potomac River. The architects also had to ensure that the building design was consistent with other buildings on the National Mall while still being unique and reflective of African American history and culture.

The Designer behind Building that Houses the Museum

The designer behind the building that houses NMAAHC is David Adjaye, a Ghanaian-British architect who is known for his innovative designs that blend modernism with traditional African aesthetics. He worked in collaboration with Philip Freelon, an African American architect who passed away in 2019.

Adjaye drew inspiration from Yoruban art from West Africa to create a building that reflects the resilience and creativity of African Americans. The exterior of the museum features a bronze-colored lattice patterned façade inspired by ironwork created by enslaved Africans in Louisiana and South Carolina.

The interior of the museum is designed to take visitors on a journey through time, beginning with exhibits about slavery and ending with present-day achievements across various fields like politics, sports, music, art among others. The galleries are arranged around a central space called the “Corona,” which allows natural light to filter into the lower levels of the museum.

Artifacts Found at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture has over 36,000 artifacts in its collection ranging from slave shackles to contemporary artwork. Some notable artifacts include:

• Nat Turner’s Bible: Nat Turner was an enslaved preacher who led one of the most famous slave rebellions in American history in Virginia in 1831. His Bible is one of only a few personal items known to have belonged to him.
• Harriet Tubman’s shawl: Harriet Tubman was an escaped slave who became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of slaves escape to freedom. Her shawl is believed to have been worn during her many journeys to freedom.
• Chuck Berry’s guitar: Chuck Berry was a pioneer of rock and roll music, known for hits like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Roll Over Beethoven.” His guitar is on display in the museum’s Sports Gallery.
• The Woolworth’s lunch counter: This exhibit features the original lunch counter from the Woolworth’s store in Greensboro, North Carolina, where four African American college students staged a sit-in protest in 1960. The protest sparked a wave of similar protests across the country and helped to galvanize the Civil Rights Movement.

Museum’s Approach to Issues Related to Race and Racism in America

The National Museum of African American History and Culture takes a comprehensive approach to issues related to race and racism in America. Its exhibitions explore the history of slavery, segregation, civil rights, and contemporary challenges facing African Americans today.

The museum also seeks to foster greater understanding between people from different backgrounds by promoting dialogue around issues related to race and racism in America. Through its educational programs, public events, publications, and digital platforms, it strives to inspire visitors to think critically about these complex issues.

One of the ways that NMAAHC addresses issues related to race is through its interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to reflect on their own experiences with race and identity. For example, the museum has an exhibit called “Talking About Race” that provides tools for having difficult conversations about race with family members or friends.

Educational Programs Offered by the National Museum of African American History and Culture for Students and Teachers

The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a variety of educational programs for students and teachers at all grade levels. These programs are designed to engage students with African American history and culture through hands-on activities, guided tours, workshops, and other interactive experiences.

Some of the educational programs offered by NMAAHC include:

• Teacher Professional Development: The museum offers workshops and seminars for teachers to help them integrate African American history and culture into their curriculum.
• Student Programs: The museum offers a range of programs for students, including guided tours, workshops, and interactive exhibits that explore various aspects of African American history and culture.
• Digital Learning Resources: The museum’s website features a range of digital learning resources, including lesson plans, primary source materials, and online exhibitions that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.

The Role Technology Plays in Enhancing Visitors’ Experiences at the Museum

The National Museum of African American History and Culture uses technology to enhance visitors’ experiences while they are at the museum. Some examples include:

• The “Lunch Counter” interactive exhibit: This exhibit allows visitors to sit at a replica of the Woolworth’s lunch counter where four African American college students staged a sit-in protest in 1960. Using touchscreens embedded in the counter, visitors can listen to audio recordings from participants in the protest.
• The “Community Curation” exhibit: This exhibit allows visitors to contribute their own stories and memories related to African American history and culture. Visitors can record their stories using an app on their smartphone or tablet.
• The “Slavery & Freedom” exhibit: This exhibit uses augmented reality technology to bring historical artifacts to life. Visitors can use a handheld device to view 3D models of objects like slave shackles or abolitionist newspapers.

Public Response to Opening this Institution, Especially from African Americans Across America

The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture was met with widespread enthusiasm, especially from African Americans across America. The museum quickly became one of the most popular Smithsonian museums, attracting millions of visitors in its first year of operation.

Many African Americans saw the opening of NMAAHC as a long-awaited recognition of their contributions to American society. The museum’s exhibits provided a space for celebrating and commemorating the achievements of African Americans throughout history, while also acknowledging the struggles they faced in the past and continue to face today.

Gift Shop at this Institution?

The National Museum of African American History and Culture has a gift shop located on its concourse level. The shop offers a wide range of merchandise related to African American history and culture, including books, artwork, jewelry, clothing, and other souvenirs.

Some notable items available for purchase include:

• Books about African American history: The gift shop offers a wide selection of books about various aspects of African American history and culture.
• African-inspired artwork: Visitors can purchase prints or original pieces by contemporary African American artists that reflect themes explored in the museum’s exhibitions.
• Jewelry: The gift shop offers a variety of jewelry inspired by traditional African designs or featuring symbols related to African American culture.

A Significant Exhibit or Artifact from Your Visit to this Institution?

One significant exhibit that stood out during my visit was “The Emmett Till Memorial.” This exhibit is dedicated to the memory of Emmett Till, a

Location of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is located on the National Mall in Washington D.C., near the Washington Monument. The museum’s location is significant because it is situated on land that was once a slave market, making it a powerful symbol of the struggle for civil rights and racial justice in America. The building itself was designed to reflect this history, with its bronze-colored lattice façade evoking the ironwork created by enslaved craftsmen in New Orleans.

Accessibility

The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, with several Metro stations nearby. There are also bike racks available for visitors who prefer to cycle to the museum. However, parking can be difficult to find in the area, so it is recommended that visitors use public transportation if possible.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to the museum itself, there are several other attractions nearby that visitors may want to explore. These include the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Smithsonian Institution’s other museums on the National Mall.

Floors at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture has five floors of exhibits that cover a wide range of topics related to black history and culture in America. Each floor has a different focus, with exhibits ranging from slavery and segregation to music and sports.

Concourse Level

The concourse level features an orientation theater where visitors can learn about the museum’s mission and goals. It also includes a café, gift shop, coat check, and restrooms.

History Galleries

The history galleries cover three floors (B1-B3) and trace African American history from slavery through Reconstruction, Jim Crow laws, Civil Rights Movement, and beyond. These exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays that bring to life the experiences of African Americans throughout history.

Culture Galleries

The culture galleries (C1-C3) showcase the contributions of African Americans to music, art, literature, sports, and other aspects of American culture. Exhibits include items such as Louis Armstrong’s trumpet, Chuck Berry’s Cadillac, and Michael Jackson’s fedora.

Exhibits Featured at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture features a wide range of exhibits that explore various aspects of black history and culture in America. Some notable exhibits include:

The Slavery and Freedom Gallery

This exhibit explores the history of slavery in America and its legacy today. It includes artifacts such as slave shackles, a whipping post, and a slave cabin.

The Civil Rights Movement Gallery

This exhibit covers the struggle for civil rights in America from the 1950s through the 1970s. It includes items such as Rosa Parks’ dress and a lunch counter from the Woolworth’s store where sit-ins were held.

Musical Crossroads Gallery

This exhibit explores the impact of African American music on American culture. It includes artifacts such as Chuck Berry’s Cadillac and Prince’s guitar.

Significance of Location on the National Mall

The location of the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall is significant because it places black history front and center in America’s national narrative. The museum is situated near other iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, which are symbols not only of America’s founding principles but also its struggles with race relations.

Acknowledging Past Injustices

By placing this museum on land that was once a slave market, the National Museum of African American History and Culture acknowledges the injustices of America’s past and seeks to promote healing and reconciliation. It also serves as a reminder that black history is American history and deserves to be celebrated and remembered.

Visibility

The museum’s location on the National Mall also ensures that it is highly visible and accessible to visitors from all over the world. This helps to raise awareness about black history and culture in America and promotes greater understanding and empathy among people of different races.

Duration to Build the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture took more than a decade to plan, design, and build. The process began in 2003 when Congress passed legislation authorizing its creation.

Design Competition

In 2009, an international design competition was held to select an architect for the museum. The winning design was submitted by David Adjaye, a British architect of Ghanaian descent.

Fundraising

Fundraising for the museum was a major challenge, with more than $500 million needed to cover construction costs alone. However, through a combination of private donations, corporate sponsorships, and government funding, the museum was able to secure the necessary funds.

Opening Day

The National Museum of African American History and Culture officially opened its doors on September 24th, 2016. The opening ceremony was attended by President Barack Obama, who spoke about the importance of recognizing black history as an integral part of America’s story.

The Designer behind Building that Houses the Museum

David Adjaye is the architect behind the building that houses the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Adjaye is known for his innovative designs that blend contemporary aesthetics with cultural references.

Inspiration for the Design

Adjaye drew inspiration for the museum’s design from several sources, including Yoruban art from West Africa and the ironwork created by enslaved craftsmen in New Orleans. The building’s bronze-colored lattice façade is meant to evoke this history while also providing shade and ventilation.

Other Notable Works

In addition to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Adjaye has designed several other notable buildings around the world, including the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway, and the Moscow School of Management Skolkovo in Russia.

Artifacts Found at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is home to a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of black history in America. Some notable artifacts include:

Nat Turner’s Bible

Nat Turner was a slave who led a rebellion against white plantation owners in Virginia in 1831. His Bible is on display at the museum.

The Dress Rosa Parks Wore on Her Arrest

Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955 sparked the Civil Rights Movement. The dress she wore on that day is part of the museum’s collection.

The Casket of Emmett Till

Emmett Till was a 14-year-old boy who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955 after being accused of whistling at a white woman. His casket is on display at the museum as a powerful reminder of America’s legacy of racial violence.

Museum’s Approach to Issues Related to Race and Racism in America

The National Museum of African American History and Culture takes a frank and honest approach to issues related to race and racism in America. Its exhibits and programming are designed to promote understanding, empathy, and dialogue around these complex issues.

Confronting Difficult Histories

The museum does not shy away from the difficult and painful aspects of black history in America, including slavery, segregation, and racial violence. Instead, it confronts these histories head-on in order to promote healing and reconciliation.

Promoting Dialogue

The museum’s exhibits and programming are designed to promote dialogue among visitors of different races and backgrounds. By creating a space where people can come together to learn about black history and culture in America, the museum hopes to foster greater understanding and empathy.

Educational Programs Offered by the National Museum of African American History and Culture for Students and Teachers

The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a wide range of educational programs for students and teachers at all levels. These programs are designed to help educators integrate black history into their curricula and provide students with opportunities to learn about this important aspect of American history.

Teacher Workshops

The museum offers workshops for teachers that focus on topics such as slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and African American art. These workshops provide educators with resources they can use in their classrooms to teach about black history in America.

Student Programs

The museum also offers programs for students that include guided tours, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits. These programs are designed to engage students with black history in a fun and engaging way.

The Role Technology Plays in Enhancing Visitors’ Experiences at the Museum

Technology plays an important role in enhancing visitors’ experiences at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. From interactive exhibits to mobile apps, technology is used throughout the museum to provide visitors with a more immersive experience.

The Oprah Winfrey Theater

The museum’s Oprah Winfrey Theater features state-of-the-art technology that allows for high-quality audio and video presentations. This theater is used for lectures, films, and other events.

Mobile App

The museum’s mobile app provides visitors with a self-guided tour of the exhibits, as well as additional information about the artifacts on display. The app also includes interactive features such as quizzes and games.

Public Response to Opening this Institution, Especially from African Americans Across America

The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture was met with widespread enthusiasm, particularly among African Americans across America. Many saw the museum as a long-overdue recognition of black history and culture in America.

Ticket Demand

Demand for tickets to the museum was extremely high in the months following its opening, with many visitors waiting months for a chance to visit. This reflected the strong interest in black history and culture among people of all races.

Celebrity Support

Many celebrities lent their support to the museum’s opening, including Oprah Winfrey, who donated $12 million to fund its construction. Other notable supporters included Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Denzel Washington.

Gift Shop at this Institution?

Yes, there is a gift shop at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The gift shop offers a wide range of items related to black history and culture in America, including books, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.

Items Available

Some notable items available at the gift shop include books by prominent black authors such as Ta-Nehisi Coates and Maya Angelou; t-shirts featuring quotes from famous black leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr.; and jewelry inspired by African art.

Online Store

In addition to the physical gift shop, the museum also has an online store where visitors can purchase items related to black history and culture in America.

A Significant Exhibit or Artifact from Your Visit to this Institution?

One of the most significant artifacts I saw during my visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture was Emmett Till’s casket. Till was a 14-year-old boy who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955 after being accused of whistling at a white woman. His mother chose to have an open-casket funeral so that people could see the brutality of his murder.

The casket is on display at the museum as a powerful reminder of America’s legacy of racial violence. Seeing it up close was a sobering experience that drove home the importance of remembering and confronting our country’s difficult history.

Surprising Things You Learned About Black History from Visiting this Institution?

One surprising thing I learned about black history from visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture was the role that black women played in shaping American music. The museum’s Musical Crossroads exhibit highlighted several female musicians who were pioneers in their fields, including Sister Rosetta Tharpe (a gospel singer who influenced rock and roll), Ella Fitzgerald (a jazz singer with a four-octave range), and Mary Lou Williams (a pianist and composer who worked with Duke Ellington).

I had never heard of some of these women before visiting the museum, but their contributions to American music were clearly significant. Learning about them helped me appreciate how much black women have contributed to our country’s cultural heritage.

This Institution’s Contribution to Conversations Surrounding Social Justice and Racial Equity in America Today?

The National Museum of African American History and Culture has made significant contributions to conversations surrounding social justice and racial equity in America today. By telling the story of black history and culture in America, the museum helps to promote greater understanding and empathy among people of different races.

Confronting Difficult Histories

The museum’s exhibits confront difficult histories such as slavery, segregation, and racial violence head-on. By acknowledging these injustices and their ongoing legacy today, the museum helps to promote healing and reconciliation.

Promoting Dialogue

The museum also promotes dialogue among visitors of different races and backgrounds through its exhibits and programming. By creating a space where people can come together to learn about black history and culture in America, the museum fosters greater understanding and empathy.

Impact of COVID-19 on Operations at this Institution?

Like many other museums around the world, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has been impacted by COVID-19. The museum closed its doors in March 2020 in response to the pandemic, but has since reopened with new safety protocols in place.

Limited Capacity

To ensure social distancing, the museum is currently operating at limited capacity. Visitors must reserve timed-entry passes in advance to ensure that there are not too many people inside the building at once.

Virtual Programming

The museum has also expanded its virtual programming offerings during the pandemic. This includes online exhibits, virtual tours, and educational resources for teachers and students who are learning remotely.

Recommended Time to Set Aside for a Visit to this Institution?

Guided Tours Available for Visitors Who Want More Context Around Certain Exhibits or Themes within this Space?

Types of Guided Tours Offered

The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a variety of guided tours to enhance visitors’ experiences. These tours include general museum highlights, thematic tours, and special exhibitions tours. Thematic tours focus on specific topics such as civil rights, music, or sports. Special exhibition tours provide in-depth information about temporary exhibits.

Benefits of Taking a Guided Tour

Taking a guided tour at the National Museum of African American History and Culture provides visitors with more context around certain exhibits or themes within the space. The knowledgeable tour guides offer insights and perspectives that may not be readily apparent to visitors exploring the museum on their own. Additionally, guided tours can help visitors navigate the vast collection and ensure they don’t miss any important exhibits.

How to Book a Guided Tour

Visitors can book guided tours online through the museum’s website or by calling the visitor services line. It is recommended that visitors book their tour in advance as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Food Policy at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Dining Options Available

The National Museum of African American History and Culture has several dining options available for visitors. The Sweet Home Cafe offers traditional African American cuisine from different regions across the country. There are also several grab-and-go options available throughout the museum.

Food Restrictions and Allergies

The museum is committed to accommodating guests with food restrictions or allergies. All menus include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests with additional dietary restrictions are encouraged to speak with a member of the dining staff who will work with them to find suitable options.

Bringing Outside Food

Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the museum, with the exception of baby food and formula. However, visitors are welcome to bring their own water bottles and refill them at one of the many water fountains located throughout the museum.

Events or Programming Offered Outside Regular Museum Hours

Night at the Museum

The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a special after-hours event called Night at the Museum. This event allows visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits after regular hours while enjoying live music, food, and drinks. Night at the Museum is held on select dates throughout the year.

Special Exhibitions

The museum also hosts special exhibitions that may have extended hours outside of regular museum hours. These exhibitions often feature interactive displays, performances, or lectures that provide a deeper understanding of African American history and culture.

Private Events

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is available for private events such as weddings, corporate events, and galas. These events can be held outside of regular museum hours and offer guests a unique experience surrounded by history and culture.

The Intersection of Race and Other Social Identities at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Exhibits Highlighting Intersectionality

Many exhibits at the National Museum of African American History and Culture highlight how race intersects with other social identities such as gender, sexuality, class, religion, and ability. For example, an exhibit on civil rights may also touch on how women’s rights were intertwined with racial equality.

Diversity in Staff Members

The museum strives to reflect diversity not only in its exhibits but also in its staff members. The staff includes individuals from various racial backgrounds as well as different genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. This diversity allows for a more nuanced understanding of African American history and culture.

Programming Focusing on Intersectionality

The museum offers programming that focuses specifically on the intersection of race with other social identities. These programs may include panel discussions, film screenings, or performances that explore the complexities of identity.

This Institution’s Impact on Your Understanding of American History and Culture

Personal Reflections from Visitors

Many visitors to the National Museum of African American History and Culture report that their experience at the museum has had a profound impact on their understanding of American history and culture. The exhibits provide a comprehensive look at African American contributions to various aspects of society, including art, music, sports, politics, and more.

Importance of Telling Diverse Histories

The museum’s focus on African American history and culture is important because it provides a more complete picture of American history. By telling diverse histories that have been previously overlooked or marginalized, the museum challenges visitors to rethink what they know about America’s past.

Continued Relevance in Today’s Society

The National Museum of African American History and Culture remains relevant today as issues related to race continue to be at the forefront of national conversations. The museum provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the historical context behind current events and gain a deeper understanding of how race has shaped America.

Research Resources Available to Scholars and Academics Interested in Studying Black History at this Institution

The Center for African American Media Arts (CAAMA)

The Center for African American Media Arts (CAAMA) is a research center located within the National Museum of African American History and Culture. CAAMA provides access to primary source materials such as photographs, films, manuscripts, oral histories, and more. Scholars and academics interested in studying black history can make an appointment to visit CAAMA and access these materials.

Online Resources

The museum’s website also provides online resources for scholars and academics interested in studying black history. The website includes a digital collections portal that allows users to search through the museum’s collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Additionally, the website offers research guides on various topics related to African American history.

Fellowship Opportunities

The National Museum of African American History and Culture offers fellowship opportunities for scholars and academics who wish to conduct research using the museum’s collection. These fellowships provide financial support as well as access to the museum’s resources.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s Engagement with Local Communities in Washington D.C. and Beyond

Community Outreach Programs

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is committed to engaging with local communities in Washington D.C. and beyond. The museum offers community outreach programs that bring exhibits, performances, lectures, and other programming directly into communities.

Collaborations with Local Organizations

The museum also collaborates with local organizations to create programming that is relevant to specific communities. For example, the museum has partnered with local churches to offer programming related to faith traditions within the African American community.

Accessibility Initiatives

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is committed to making its exhibits accessible to all visitors regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. The museum offers audio tours, large print materials, tactile maps, sign language interpretation services, and more.

A Message You Hope Visitors Take Away from their Experience at this Institution

The Importance of Telling Diverse Histories

One message that visitors should take away from their experience at the National Museum of African American History and Culture is the importance of telling diverse histories. The museum’s exhibits challenge visitors to rethink what they know about American history and consider the contributions of African Americans to various aspects of society.

The Resilience of the African American Community

Another message that visitors should take away from their experience at the museum is the resilience of the African American community. Despite facing significant obstacles, African Americans have made significant contributions to American culture and society. Visitors should leave with a sense of admiration for this resilience and a commitment to continuing to learn about and celebrate African American history and culture.

The Ongoing Struggle for Racial Justice

Finally, visitors should leave with an understanding that the struggle for racial justice is ongoing. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done in terms of achieving true equality for all people regardless of race or ethnicity. The museum’s exhibits provide a historical context for this ongoing struggle and inspire visitors to continue working towards a more just society.

Ways to Support the Ongoing Work of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

Donate

One way to support the ongoing work of the National Museum of African American History and Culture is by making a donation. Donations help fund programming, research initiatives, exhibitions, and other important work carried out by the museum.

Become a Member

Becoming a member of the National Museum of African American History and Culture provides several benefits including free admission, discounts on merchandise, priority access to special events, and more. Membership fees help support ongoing operations at the museum.

Volunteer

The National Museum of African American History and Culture relies on volunteers to assist with various tasks such as greeting visitors, leading tours, assisting with events, and more. Volunteering is a great way to support the museum while gaining valuable experience and meeting new people.

In conclusion, the National Museum of African American History and Culture stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural contributions of African Americans in the United States. Through its exhibits and collections, it provides a platform for understanding and appreciating the struggles and triumphs of this community, while also promoting diversity and inclusivity in American society.