African American History and Culture Museum

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Meditation Mondays: Rooted in the Land

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us every Monday this April as we explore meditation as a practice in liberation. This 40-minute meditation session provides an opportunity for participants of any experience level to explore the museum’s theme of Rooted in the Land through mindfulness meditation practice.  This program includes grounding meditations, breathwork, and deep listening exercises to music and others in the space. Together we will experience freedom in the present moment and contemplate the journey of Black Americans toward liberation. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Online. Cost: Free! Registration is Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://smithsonian.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYvdOitrT0oHdZ44AJCbq-GxspQfr9so4g-. Categories: Webcasts & Online. Monday, April 22, 2024, 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM.

Spotlights: Freedom Now! The Modern Civil Rights Movement (1945-1968)

Ongoing Tours & Activities Our 25-minute spotlight tours provide an engaging introduction to a key topic in the Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition.   About this program: After World War II, a generation of African Americans saw less and less reason to endure attacks on their civil rights. Learn how African Americans survived the challenges set before and explore how the nation emerged more in sync with its pronouncements about freedom, equality, and democracy. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the entrance to Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition, located on C2. Each 25 min talk takes place at 12:45 PM and 2:45 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968. Keywords: Black History Month, Civil Rights, activism. Topics: American History & Culture. Monday, April 22, 2024, 12:45 PM – 3:10 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: Plywood panel mural from Resurrection City

One-Time Events At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object.  During this program we’ll consider a salvaged mural from the Resurrection City—a 1968 anti-poverty protest camp. Visitors will discover how America’s cultural diversity comes forth in the mural and come to understand how the National Mall has served as a site for the public to express concerns about American society. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the Plywood panel mural from Resurrection City, in the A Changing America 1968 and Beyond exhibition. C1. Each 15-min talk takes place at: 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: A Changing America 1968 and Beyond. Keywords: The 1968 Poor People's Campaign, Resurrection City, The Civil Rights Movement, Community Day, MLK. Topics: American History & Culture. Monday, April 22, 2024, 1:30 PM – 3:45 PM.

CANCELLED - Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery & Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 10:15 AM and 11:30 AM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Keywords: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Our Solar System, Our Home

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a classroom program for ages 8+ to explore STEM concepts in relation to African American history, culture, or the museum. In this lesson, people will learn about size and scale of our solar system, spacetime and gravity, and African Americans who have helped with our understanding of the solar system. Image credit: National Postal Museum. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Solar System, Planets, Space, Gravity. Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: Afrofuturist Harriet Tubman

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a docent-led talk and get a fresh look into a featured object that is on view in one of our permanent exhibitions.  At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object and experience the infinite possibilities of Afrofuturism. About this Program:  Harriet Tubman has been known by many names—Araminta, Moses, conductor, daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt. Her legacy of care, activism and bravery has influenced Black women across time.  Visitors will learn about the life of Harriet Tubman by exploring artwork created by Alison Saar and Bisa Butler.  Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the Harriet Tubman Quilt by Bisa Butler, in the Visual Arts Gallery, L4. Each 15-minute program starts at: 10:15 AM, 11:15 AM, and 12:15 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. Keywords: Black History Month, Reckoning, Visual Arts. Topics: American Art. American History & Culture. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery & Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 10:15 AM and 11:30 AM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Keywords: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

The Power of Place Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Our Power of Place exhibition uses the idea of place and region as an integral component of the African American experience. Tour 10 diverse places in the U.S. significant to African Americans with a docent.  Learn about black urban life in Chicago, leisure in Oak Bluffs in Martha’s Vineyard, life in the rice fields of South Carolina’s low country, and the rise of hip hop in Bronx, New York. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the Power Place exhibition, L3. Each 1 hour tour takes place at 10:15 AM and 11:30 AM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Keywords: Community Day, Power of Place, Bronx, Rooted in the Land. Topics: American History & Culture. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Our Solar System, Our Home

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a classroom program for ages 8+ to explore STEM concepts in relation to African American history, culture, or the museum. In this lesson, people will learn about size and scale of our solar system, spacetime and gravity, and African Americans who have helped with our understanding of the solar system. Image credit: National Postal Museum. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Solar System, Planets, Space, Gravity. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Historically Speaking: Undiplomatic: How My Attitude Created the Best Kind of Trouble

One-Time Events In this vivid portrayal from a true “around the way girl” on the personal impact of the Obama presidency, Deesha Dyer, former White House social secretary, shares her road map from imposter to impact. In Undiplomatic, she invites you on a journey of self-discovery where she overcame doubt, unearthed true love for herself and learned that your unique worth is not something to be earned, but something inherently deserved. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater + streaming. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/77457522/historically-speakingundiplomatichow-my-attitude-created-the-best-kind-of-trouble-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: Shopping/Book Signing. After Five. Lectures & Discussions. Webcasts & Online. Keywords: Historically Speaking. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery & Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 10:15 AM and 11:30 AM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Keywords: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Thursday, April 25, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: The Life of Toussaint L'Ouverture by Jacobs Lawrence

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a docent-led talk and get a fresh look into a featured object that is on view in one of our permanent exhibitions.  At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object. About this Program:  Jacob Lawrence’s The Life of Toussaint L’Ouverture celebrates the Haitian revolutionary strategist and statesman who liberated his country from colonial rule to establish the first independent Black republic.  Explore the silk prints by the artist that depict L’Ouverture’s struggle against slavery and oppression. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the L'Ouverture screen prints, in the Visual Arts Gallery, L4. Each 15-minute program starts at: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 12:30 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. Keywords: Reckoning, Visual Arts, Black History Month. Topics: American History & Culture. American Art. World History & Cultures. Thursday, April 25, 2024, 10:30 AM – 12:45 PM.

Spotlights: Freedom Now! The Modern Civil Rights Movement (1945-1968)

Ongoing Tours & Activities Our 25-minute spotlight tours provide an engaging introduction to a key topic in the Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition.   About this program: After World War II, a generation of African Americans saw less and less reason to endure attacks on their civil rights. Learn how African Americans survived the challenges set before and explore how the nation emerged more in sync with its pronouncements about freedom, equality, and democracy. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the entrance to Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition, located on C2. Each 25 min talk takes place at 12:45 PM and 2:45 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968. Keywords: Black History Month, Civil Rights, activism. Topics: American History & Culture. Thursday, April 25, 2024, 12:45 PM – 3:10 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: The Life of Toussaint L'Ouverture by Jacobs Lawrence

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a docent-led talk and get a fresh look into a featured object that is on view in one of our permanent exhibitions.  At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object. About this Program:  Jacob Lawrence’s The Life of Toussaint L’Ouverture celebrates the Haitian revolutionary strategist and statesman who liberated his country from colonial rule to establish the first independent Black republic.  Explore the silk prints by the artist that depict L’Ouverture’s struggle against slavery and oppression. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the L'Ouverture screen print, in the Visual Arts Gallery, L4. Each 15-minute program starts at: 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. Keywords: Reckoning, Visual Arts, Black History Month. Topics: American History & Culture. American Art. World History & Cultures. Sunday, April 28, 2024, 1:30 PM – 3:45 PM.

Meditation Mondays: Rooted in the Land

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us every Monday this April as we explore meditation as a practice in liberation. This 40-minute meditation session provides an opportunity for participants of any experience level to explore the museum’s theme of Rooted in the Land through mindfulness meditation practice.  This program includes grounding meditations, breathwork, and deep listening exercises to music and others in the space. Together we will experience freedom in the present moment and contemplate the journey of Black Americans toward liberation. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Online. Cost: Free! Registration is Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://smithsonian.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpdeCuqjkoGtVVXBl-YZ269Ss_f2Kwj21r. Categories: Webcasts & Online. Monday, April 29, 2024, 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: Afrofuturist Harriet Tubman

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a docent-led talk and get a fresh look into a featured object that is on view in one of our permanent exhibitions.  At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object and experience the infinite possibilities of Afrofuturism. About this Program:  Harriet Tubman has been known by many names—Araminta, Moses, conductor, daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt. Her legacy of care, activism and bravery has influenced Black women across time.  Visitors will learn about the life of Harriet Tubman by exploring artwork created by Alison Saar and Bisa Butler.  Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the Harriet Tubman Quilt by Bisa Butler, in the Visual Arts Gallery, L4. Each 15-minute program starts at: 1:15 PM, 2:15 PM, and 3:15 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. Keywords: Black History Month, Reckoning, Visual Arts. Topics: American Art. American History & Culture. Monday, April 29, 2024, 1:15 PM – 3:30 PM.

Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery and Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 1:15 PM and 2:30 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Monday, April 29, 2024, 1:15 PM – 3:30 PM.

Making A Way Out of No Way Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Learn about the ways in which African Americans created possibilities in a world that denied them opportunities. On this docent led tour visitors will reflect on the perseverance, resourcefulness, and resilience required by African Americans to survive and thrive in America. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Making A Way Out of No Way exhibition, L3. Each 1-hour tour takes place at 1:30 PM and 2:45 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Making A Way Out of No Way. Keywords: Black History. Topics: American History & Culture. Technology & Invention. Monday, April 29, 2024, 1:30 PM – 3:45 PM.

Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery & Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 10:15 AM and 11:30 AM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Keywords: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 10:15 AM – 12:30 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Having Fun with Frequencies

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a classroom program for ages 8+ to explore STEM concepts in relation to African American history, culture, or the museum. In this lesson, people will learn about sound, frequency, famous African American electric guitarists, and how electric guitars work. Image Credit: Robert Stewart | NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Music, Guitar, Sound, Frequencies, Electricity, Magnetism. Topics: Science & Nature. Technology & Invention. Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Spotlights: Freedom Now! The Modern Civil Rights Movement (1945-1968)

Ongoing Tours & Activities Our 25-minute spotlight tours provide an engaging introduction to a key topic in the Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition.   About this program: After World War II, a generation of African Americans saw less and less reason to endure attacks on their civil rights. Learn how African Americans survived the challenges set before and explore how the nation emerged more in sync with its pronouncements about freedom, equality, and democracy. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the entrance to Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 exhibition, located on C2. Each 25 min talk takes place at 12:45 PM and 2:45 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968. Keywords: Black History Month, Civil Rights, activism. Topics: American History & Culture. Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 12:45 PM – 3:10 PM.

Big Objects, Big Stories: Afrofuturist Harriet Tubman

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a docent-led talk and get a fresh look into a featured object that is on view in one of our permanent exhibitions.  At each of these 15-minute talks visitors will hear incredibly big stories about a big object and experience the infinite possibilities of Afrofuturism. About this Program:  Harriet Tubman has been known by many names—Araminta, Moses, conductor, daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt. Her legacy of care, activism and bravery has influenced Black women across time.  Visitors will learn about the life of Harriet Tubman by exploring artwork created by Alison Saar and Bisa Butler.  Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets at the Harriet Tubman Quilt by Bisa Butler, in the Visual Arts Gallery, L4. Each 15-minute program starts at: 1:15 PM, 2:15 PM, and 3:15 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience. Keywords: Black History Month, Reckoning, Visual Arts. Topics: American Art. American History & Culture. Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 1:15 PM – 3:30 PM.

Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

Ongoing Tours & Activities Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation. Photo Credit:  NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Program meets in the Slavery and Freedom exhibition, located on C3. One hour tours take place at 1:15 PM and 2:30 PM. Cost: Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Related Exhibition: Slavery and Freedom. Topics: American History & Culture. Tuesday, April 30, 2024, 1:15 PM – 3:30 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Having Fun with Frequencies

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a classroom program for ages 8+ to explore STEM concepts in relation to African American history, culture, or the museum. In this lesson, people will learn about sound, frequency, famous African American electric guitarists, and how electric guitars work. Image Credit: Robert Stewart | NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Music, Guitar, Sound, Frequencies, Electricity, Magnetism. Topics: Science & Nature. Technology & Invention. Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Flying High with the Triple Nickles

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a pop-up program for ages 8+ that focuses on a particular STEM concept and relates it to the museum or African American History and Culture. In this lesson, people will learn about 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion (aka the Triple Nickles), make their own parachutes, and test them. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Triple Nickles, Parachutes. Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Explore More! in STEM: Flying High with the Triple Nickles

One-Time Events Explore More! in STEM is a pop-up program for ages 8+ that focuses on a particular STEM concept and relates it to the museum or African American History and Culture. In this lesson, people will learn about 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion (aka the Triple Nickles), make their own parachutes, and test them. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 2nd Floor Classrooms. Cost: This is a *free* event! Categories: Kids & Families. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, NMAAHC, Triple Nickles, Parachutes. Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Through the African American Lens: The Riot Report

One-Time Events Join us for a film preview and discussion of American Experience PBS’ The Riot Report, which explores a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. When Black neighborhoods across America erupted in violence in the summer of 1967, President Johnson appointed the Kerner Commission to answer three questions: What happened? Why did it happen? And what could be done to prevent it from happening again? The commission’s final report would offer a shockingly unvarnished assessment of American race relations that would doom its finding to political oblivion. The Riot Report premieres on PBS stations nationwide on May 21 at 9/8c.   A panel discussion will follow the film preview featuring Michelle Ferrari, writer, director, and producer of The Riot Report; Jelani Cobb, writer and co-producer of The Riot Report; and Elizabeth Hinton, Associate Professor of History and African American Studies at Yale University and author of From the War on Poverty to the War on Crime: The Making of Mass Incarceration in America. Cameo… Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater + streaming. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/81730363. Categories: Films. Lectures & Discussions. Webcasts & Online. After Five. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: Through the African American Lens. Friday, May 10, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Celebrating the Past, Shaping the Future: 70th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education

One-Time Events Join us as we examine this historic event’s impact on the current state of education and honor the Little Rock 9, the litigants of Brown, and other champions who have made the continued pursuit of educational justice possible.    Image: Lucinda Todd was the secretary of the Topeka, Kansas branch of the NAACP and the first parent to sign on as plaintiff in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. The dining room of her home was a gathering place both for local members of the NAACP and national figures involved in the case such as Thurgood Marshall, Roy Wilkins, Walter White, and Jack Greenberg. Todd was quoted as saying, "this is where it all started, right here" in reference to the table.     Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Judge Paul L. Brady. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Co-sponsor: NAACP. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/94507382/celebrating-the-pastshaping-the-future70th-anniversary-of-brown-vboard-of-educationnmaahc-gp-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: Lectures & Discussions. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, May 17, 2024, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Meditation Mondays: Freedom to Rest

Ongoing Tours & Activities Join us for a special edition of our Meditation Monday program to commemorate the opening of our new exhibit in the Visual Arts gallery, Reclaiming My Time. This 40-minute meditation session provides an opportunity for participants of any experience level to explore the notion that rest is resilience. Together we will experience the restorative practice of meditation and contemplate the journey of Black Americans toward liberation. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Online. Cost: Free! Registration is Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://smithsonian.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwoc--trTMpGNV3lK6qKeC0vR1fDduTMLGd. Categories: Webcasts & Online. After Five. Related Exhibition: Reclaiming My Time. Monday, May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM.

Historically Speaking: Michele Norris: Our Hidden Conversations

One-Time Events Join us for a book talking highlighting Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race and Identity by Peabody Award–winning journalist Michele Norris. The author offers a transformative dialogue on race and identity in America, unearthed through her decade-long work at The Race Card Project. The prompt seemed simple: Race. Your Thoughts. Six Words. Please Send. The answers, though, have been challenging and complicated. In the twelve years since Norris first posed that question, over half a million people have submitted their stories to The Race Card Project inbox. The stories are shocking in their depth and candor, spanning the full spectrum of race, ethnicity, identity, and class. Our Hidden Conversations is a unique compilation of stories, richly reported essays, and photographs providing a window into America during a tumultuous era. This powerful book offers an honest, if sometimes uncomfortable, conversation about race and identity, permitting us to eavesdrop on deep-seated thoughts,… Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater + streaming. Online Link: https://www.youtube.com/c/NMAAHC/videos. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/55747446/historically-speakingmichele-norrisour-hidden-conversationsgp-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: Shopping/Book Signing. After Five. Lectures & Discussions. Webcasts & Online. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: Historically Speaking. Wednesday, May 29, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Black Birders Week STEAM Day 2024: Birdwalk

One-Time Events On Saturday June 1, 2024, join the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of Natural History as we celebrate Black birders, birds, and nature. Experienced birders will lead a bird walk and birding activities starting at NMAAHC. Meeting location will be shared via email by Thursday May 30, 2024 , Participants can expect to walk (at most) 2 miles, , grab light refreshments inside NMAAHC following the bird walk, , participate in the Black Birders Week STEAM Day celebration from 11am-3pm. , , Twenty-five (25) people will be allowed to participate in the birding activity. The Smithsonian will not provide binoculars. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Natural History Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: NMAAHC grounds (External to building). Cost: Registration is open! Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/72414652. Categories: Kids & Families. Related Events: Black Birders Week STEAM Day 2024 | National Museum of African American History and Culture (si.edu). Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: STEM, Black Birders Week, NMNH, NMAAHC. Topics: Science & Nature. Saturday, June 1, 2024, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM. For more info visit nmaahc.si.edu.

Black Birders Week STEAM Day 2024

One-Time Events Did you know there is an entire week dedicated to Black birders, called Black Birders Week? Black Birders Week began in 2020 to highlight the challenges and joys of Black nature enthusiasts, particularly birders. If you are interested in STEAM, including birds, nature, wildlife, and African American history, then this is the program for you!   On Saturday June 1 from 11am-3pm, join the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Zoo as we celebrate Black birders, birds, and nature. Activities include A guided bird walk , Owl pellet dissection , Bird feather microscopy , and MORE! Black Birders Week 2024 is from Sunday May 26th to Saturday June 1st. Learn more about Black Birders Week. Photo Credit: Robert Stewart | NMAAHC. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Natural History Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 1st and 2nd floors. Cost: This is a free event, but participants are required to register to attend. Registration is open! Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/69380189. Categories: Celebrations. Kids & Families. Keywords: STEM, Black Birders Week, NMNH, NMAAHC. Topics: Science & Nature. Saturday, June 1, 2024, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. For more info visit nmaahc.si.edu.

Love, Liberation, and Joy: The Music of Janelle Monáe with the U.S. Army Band

One-Time Events Musicians from The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” present an Afrofuturism-focused program featuring the music of Janelle Monáe. Since stepping onto the scene in 2007, Monáe's work has spanned musical genres including, R&B, funk, soul, hip-hop, and rock and roll. Beginning with her first conceptual EP titled Metropolis, Monáe has relied heavily on the tropes of Afrofuturism to tell stories that uplift those who are marginalized, and to fight for justice for the oppressed. This concert seeks to explore the works of Janelle Monáe through the lenses of Love, Liberation, and Joy. When used to examine the ever-unfolding journey of Black America, these three ideas provide the tools to help carry the weight of a history that is as deep and rich as it is painful, while simultaneously giving us the courage to continue envisioning better and brighter worlds for all of humanity. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/85382628/loveliberationand-joythe-music-of-janelle-mon%C3%A1e-with-the-usarmy-bandgp-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: Afrofuturism. Sunday, June 2, 2024, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.

Historically Speaking: Alice Randall: My Black Country

One-Time Events Join us for a book talk celebrating My Black Country, a recent release by Alice Randall, an award-winning professor, songwriter, and author. Randall offers a lyrical, introspective, and unforgettable account of her past and her search for the first family of Black country music in the work of DeFord Bailey, Lil Hardin, Ray Charles, Charley Pride, and Herb Jeffries who, together, made up a community of Black Americans rising through hard times to create simple beauty, true joy, and sometimes profound eccentricity. My Black Country celebrates of the most American of music genres and the radical joy in realizing the power of Black influence on American culture. Randall will be joined in conversation by NMAAHC’s Steven Lewis, Curator of Music and the Performing Arts, and Kelly Navies, Oral History Museum Specialist. Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Concourse, Oprah Winfrey Theater + streaming. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90322327/historically-speakingalice-randallmy-black-country-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: Shopping/Book Signing. After Five. Webcasts & Online. Lectures & Discussions. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Friday, June 7, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Juneteenth Community Day Celebration

One-Time Events Mark Your Calendars! Join us for a captivating Juneteenth Community Day themed "Freedom, Movement, and Migration" on June 15, 2024, from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm. This special day is designed to engage people of all ages in a meaningful celebration of freedom and cultural evolution, commemorating Juneteenth's significance in the journey toward equality and recognition in American history.    Check out this wonderful array of activities!    Juneteenth Storytime (11:00 AM and 2:30 PM): Delight your little ones with engaging story sessions and introduce them to diverse perspectives, fostering a love for reading. The Museum will feature Tami Charles reading her latest book, We Are Here.    Crafts of Juneteenth (12:00 – 2:00 PM): Design your own Juneteenth flag. Create art based on the life and works of artist, veteran, and fish pepper seed enthusiast, Horace Pippin. Visitors of all ages are welcome!    Presenting the Buffalo Soldiers (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM; 2:00 – 4:00 PM): Learn about the 19th- & 20th-century all-Black… Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: Various locations. Cost: Free; Registration Required. Categories: Kids & Families. Celebrations. Lectures & Discussions. Performances. Shopping/Book Signing. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: Juneteenth 2024. Saturday, June 15, 2024, 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

A Seat at the Table: A Juneteenth Conversation with Bryant Terry and Kevin Young

One-Time Events Join us for an enlightening evening as we present a special edition of our signature program that brings together two remarkable voices in a dynamic dialogue about food, culture, and social justice. James Beard Award-winning chef, food activist, and author of the acclaimed Black Food, Bryant Terry, will sit down with NMAAHC’s Andrew W. Mellon Director, Kevin Young, to explore the rich tapestry of African American cuisine and its evolution through the lens of migration, identity, and resilience. Chef Terry will also discuss his groundbreaking approach to veganism, challenging stereotypes of African American cuisine as "slave food" and promoting healthy eating as a form of social justice activism. This Juneteenth, indulge in a special plant-based meal curated by Bryant Terry, designed to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of African American cuisine and Juneteenth. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a small discussion at their tables related to healthier ways of eating, explore… Sponsor: African American History and Culture Museum. Venue: African American History and Culture Museum. Event Location: 1st Floor, Heritage Hall. Cost: $40.00. Get Tickets/Register: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/65863669/a-seat-at-the-tablea-juneteenth-conversation-with-bryant-terry-and-kevin-younggp-washington-national-museum-of-african-american-history-culture-public-programs. Categories: After Five. Lectures & Discussions. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Keywords: A Seat at the Table; Juneteenth 2024. Saturday, June 15, 2024, 6:45 PM – 9:30 PM.