The International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina has announced its opening events ahead of the launch on 27 June.
The celebrations begin on 22 June with a multi-faith worship service at the city’s Morris Brown AME Church. This will reflect on the work that led to the museum’s opening and celebrate the history of the African American people and their culture.
On 24 June, dedication ceremonies and presentations will take place at the museum and Marion Square via live simulcast. There will be live performances and F&B from Black-owned food trucks.
Additionally, a mobile visitor centre and hospitality tent will offer visitor guides and local merchandise, and recommend activities around the Charleston area.
Live performances and multi-faith worship
Boeing South Carolina’s DreamLearners, an educational programme providing students with STEM learning opportunities, will also host a celebration event in Marion Square. This will include paper airplane building and flight competitions with free Boeing swag.
“We have waited a long time for this moment – we have many to thank and much to celebrate,” said Tonya Matthews, the museum’s president and CEO. “It’s exciting to invite the community to join us for this historic moment.
“We’re preparing to open our doors with music, food, poetry, incredible visuals and words of wisdom – and to truly celebrate African American culture and its connection to and influence on the world.”
The new museum sits on the site of Gadsden’s Wharf, a former slave trading port. It houses nine exhibition galleries, a special exhibition gallery, and a floating gallery of contemporary art.
Designed by architect Henry Cobb, the 150,000-square-foot institution explores the history, culture and impact of the African American journey across the world.
“The African American journey is far longer than the 20 years it took to build this museum and we are humbly proud to step up and play our part in this story. It is time,” said Matthews.
Lead image credit: International African American Museum
