AAMSAZ Updates from the E.D. December 2023
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Greetings,
What a wonderful and busy November we have had. Now…Welcome to December! Are you ready for this holiday season? This year has moved so quickly.
We have had many of you join us in our 1st Membership Campaign! We are truly grateful…Thank you… we are close to meeting our goal!
We have visited schools, and schools have visited us. We’ve been asked to provide presentations, given a few private tours (loved my family and friends following the EEF Ceremony), set up pop-up museums, along with updates, collections, and recording oral histories! We have also had meetings at the museum including one with TUSD's African American Student Services Director Dr. Tonya Strozier and Shermain Fort. All of this has kept us busy. By the way, we welcome the walk-ins like the dedicated soldiers who dropped in when they saw we were open.
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So, here’s an important update!
We will be temporarily closing our doors to work on upgrades, complete and design new exhibitions, prepare pop-ups, write and review a few grant options, document new collections, and make a few improvements.
We will also be planning our 1 Year Anniversary – SAVE THE DATE – Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the UA Student Union 2 - 3:00 PM and planning events for Black History Month, including a visit from Carlotta Walls!
We understand that this closure may cause some inconvenience, and we appreciate your understanding and patience during this time. The University locks the gate to the breezeway leading to the museum, so we do not have access for a few weeks. That doesn’t mean we won’t be working… we will be working. We are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional museum experience, and we believe that the improvements will contribute to an engaging visit for all of you, our visitors, in the coming year!
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High School Clubs… come for a visit! | |
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We had a wonderful time with over 30 students from Agua Fria HS and Sponsor Celina German when they visited the museum (this is the 2nd time she has brought students to AAMSAZ). We supported the HS visit by collaborating with Africana Studies and Dr. Praise Zenega, Dr. Cheree Meeks of the Honors College, Dr. Bryan Carter from the Center of Digital Humanities, and Dr. Lehman Benson, VP of Black Advancement and Engagement, to move these students through a visit to the museum and assist with recruiting Students of Color to attend the University of Arizona.
Black Student Unions and African American Student Alliance Clubs, please contact us for a tour and more.
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Thank you for attending - AAMSAZ Winter Gala! | |
We had a wonderful time at our 1st gala fundraiser! We are delighted that some of you took the time to join us and contribute to the success and sustainability of the museum. For those who attended, your presence added immense joy and significance to the evening. For those who were unable to attend, we hope that you will enjoy the photos. We missed you! Please try to make it to our next event! | |
We had an enchanting time, filled with memorable moments and enjoyable conversations. Your support means so much to us, as it directly aids our research and exhibitions, supports our educational programs, and allows us to continue offering free admission, a free informative newsletter, announcements to our community, and information on upcoming events and workshops.
Together, we can strive for greater heights. Thank you once again for being a part of this extraordinary evening.
Our presenters were the stars of the evening!
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Museum and Campus Updates!
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Broadway in Tucson!
Broadway in Tucson’s Moriah Baker-Lipin contacted us for a private tour for the cast of “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations” on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. We were delighted to host the cast, as they were from various parts of the country.
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"Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations" is a critically acclaimed Broadway musical that chronicles the extraordinary journey of The Temptations, an iconic Motown group, from their humble beginnings in Detroit to their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Known for their captivating dance routines and smooth harmonies, the group achieved remarkable success, boasting an impressive 42 Top Ten Hits, with 14 of them reaching the #1 spot on the charts.
The musical has received widespread recognition, being nominated for 12 Tony® Awards and securing the 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography.
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Penned by Dominique Morisseau, a three-time Obie Award winner, and directed by Des McAnuff, a two-time Tony Award winner renowned for his work on "Jersey Boys," the production showcases the Tony-winning choreography of Sergio Trujillo, known for his contributions to "Jersey Boys" and "On Your Feet!" Throughout the musical, the audience is treated to the timeless hits of The Temptations, including classics such as “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and many more, all set against the backdrop of the group’s remarkable story.
As a Native Michigander, I remember going to the State Fair and paying $5 to see the Temptations, The Supremes, The Jackson 5 and more perform on a small bandstand! I am not amazed at their success! Congratulations on an amazing performance!
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Ruby Bridges
will be inducted to the
National Women's Hall Of Fame!
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We at AAMSAZ are so proud to have had Ruby Bridges visit Tucson as our guest!
The induction of Ruby Bridges and Serena Williams into the National Women's Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, recognizing their immense contributions to society in their respective fields. The 2024 class is truly a diverse group of women from various backgrounds. The women will be honored during Women's History Month in March. The fact that the induction ceremony will be broadcast nationally in prime time from New York City indicates the significance of this recognition and provides a platform to celebrate and honor these remarkable women.
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A Walk with Ruby!
November 14th, 2023: Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day
| This year, schools throughout Southern Arizona, including TUSD’s Robbins K8 and Principal Chandra Thomas, supported the Walk with Ruby! Steve Freeman and Shakenya Humphries did as well and they invited us to speak at Holladay Elementary in honor of the walk. Executive Director, Beverely Elliott, helped to pass out stickers, string packs, and wristbands to the students along with their student ambassadors! Thanks Steve and Shakenya! |  | |
Ruby Bridges holds a significant place in American history for her bravery and contribution to the civil rights movement. Her integration into an elementary school in New Orleans marked a pivotal moment in the fight against segregation.
The painting by Norman Rockwell, 'The Problem We All Live With,' immortalizes that historic moment and continues to serve as a powerful symbol of the struggle for equality. It's fantastic that we have a copy of this iconic piece at the museum.
The establishment of the Ruby Bridges Foundation speaks volumes about her commitment to promoting tolerance and change through education, emphasizing the importance of fostering understanding and acceptance among diverse communities.
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Little Rock Nine
Carlotta Walls is Coming to Tucson!
Join AAMSAZ for a “Chat with Carlotta Walls”
Friday, February 9, 2024 at 6:00 PM
Palo Verde High School!
Book Signing 5:00 PM in the School Cafeteria
More information on how to sign up is coming soon!
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Who were the Little Rock Nine?
The Little Rock Nine's efforts to desegregate Central High School in 1957 were a significant and pivotal time in the Civil Rights Movement. Carlotta Walls was one of those students. These nine brave students faced tremendous adversity and racism as they sought to attend an all-white school. Their dedication to the cause of equality and access to education helped pave the way for desegregation in schools across the United States.
It is crucial that schools provide comprehensive education about historical events, especially those related to the civil rights struggle and desegregation, to ensure that students are informed and aware of the challenges faced by those who came before them, which allow them to live as they do now.
The 65th-anniversary celebration of the Little Rock Nine's efforts serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made in the fight against segregation and discrimination in education. It also underscores the ongoing importance of continuing to educate the public, particularly young students, about the history of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggles endured by individuals like the Little Rock Nine in their pursuit of equal educational opportunities.
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Graced by the Spotlight Again:
AAMSAZ Featured in the News, Countless Times!
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I believe that many are familiar with Beverely's vision to establish our museum—a truly remarkable project, particularly given the challenges of the pandemic. Completed in two years, it stands as an incredible and ongoing effort. We are growing and innovating, sharing the proud history of African Americans in Southern Arizona with our community, both in the past and, of course, for the future.
We take great pride in our Executive Director, Beverely Elliott! Without her steadfast leadership, we simply could not operate.
Countless times, Beverely has represented us in the news and media, showcasing her passion and dedication as the founder (and also as a volunteer!!) of the museum. We are grateful for her selfless contributions and look forward to sharing more!
---Jenny Li
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Board Member Highlights
Richard Davis, Esq.
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Board Member Richard Davis received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law in early November. What a beautiful evening, as so many Tucsonans showed up to support Richard, including Board Members and Founders Styne Hill, Collier Hill, Bob Elliott, Beverely Elliott, and advisory Board Members Jacque and Delano Price, and of course advisory board member and his beautiful bride, Doreen Davis. Tucson Icons such as Vertie Sparks, Donna Liggins, Doris Snowden, and Martha Preston were present, along with Boule’ members Alex Hishaw, Duane Dyson, and Butch Patterson. | |
Congratulations Tina Johnson!
AAMSAZ Advisory Board Member
Buffalo Soldier Make Your Mark Award
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The University of Arizona Sankofa Black Staff and Faculty Association
selected Tina Johnson as the
2023 Buffalo Soldier Make Your Mark Staff Award recipient.
The award honors those who stand out for making a difference for Black lives on campus. Congratulations Tina! We are so proud of you! The Buffalo Soldiers of the all-Black 9th and 10th Cavalry left an enduring legacy in the Southwest. The Buffalo Soldiers were among the most loyal, decorated soldiers of their time, participating in at least 177 conflicts. The Buffalo Soldiers were also among the first protectors of the land, as they became our park rangers and border patrol agents.
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We are working to bring you quality exhibits! | |
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We are working on a diverse array of exhibits and projects. Hattie McDaniel's story is indeed significant, especially her groundbreaking achievement as the first African American woman to win an Academy Award for her role in "Gone with the Wind." What does that have to do with Tucson? We're working on sharing that with you!
The idea of showcasing African American women and their relationship with hats is fascinating. Hats have often been emblematic of style, culture, and expression within various communities, including the significance of hats in church settings or social gatherings. Exploring the historical and cultural importance of hats among African American women could provide rich insights into traditions, fashion, and identity. Stay tuned more to come!
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Promotional photograph of actor Hattie McDaniel (1939) | |
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Regarding Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, her nomination and confirmation indeed marked a historic moment. Planning a bench in her honor and finding a way to bring her to Tucson reflects a commitment to recognizing influential figures shaping contemporary history. Please donate!
https://www.aamsaz.org/coming-soon-with-your-help/
Engaging the local community in gathering oral histories can be a powerful way to capture lived experiences, traditions, and personal stories that might otherwise go untold. We are working with several people around southern Arizona that will add to the stories we have captured already!
Overall, we are on an exciting path toward showcasing a wide range of compelling narratives and history, creating a space for learning, understanding, and celebrating!
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African American Legacy Fundraiser | |
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In honor of Dr. Jolivet’s legacy and vision for our community, the African American Legacy Fund (AALF) founded the Dr. Anna Jolivet Community Champion Award in her honor. This award is presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional community leadership and commitment to making a difference for Black and African American people living in Southern Arizona.
We, at the museum were invited to attend the ceremony. AAMSAZ Board member Bill Ponder and AAMSAZ/ TEP/ Eller Intern Michael Frees attended, and were asked to speak at the affair, and did a wonderful job representing the museum. We are so grateful for AALF, our board, interns, volunteers and Jenny!
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Free Swim Lessons
We will serve 50 to 75 children (Ages 5 – 18)
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Students Will Get: FREE Swim Bag, Flip flops, Goggles, Swim Towels, and Free Lessons! Historically.... Children of Color were not allowed to swim due to racial prejudice. Let's work on changing that! Lessons take place at The University’s Student Recreation Center Pool on 6th Street. Certified swim instructors will instruct the children.
For information or to register, scan the QR code!
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Please join us by making your end of the season gift today and be a part of bringing high-quality educational programming, engaging content, and impactful cultural information to our community and the world.
We know the past is not always easy to access,
but it makes the future possible.
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The State of Black Arizona
in partnership with the African American Legacy Fund
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African American Leadership Institute (AALI)of Southern Arizona (AALI) is the only culturally specific leadership program for Black professionals across all career levels in Arizona.
- AALI is designed to upskill participants as leaders and promote their engagement in workforce and civic leadership roles.
- AALI utilizes local leading experts in economics, education, civic life, criminal justice, healthcare, and philanthropy.
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The Institute concludes with a Graduation Ceremony to celebrate its program graduates. To learn more about the African American Leadership Institute visit www.stateofblackarizona.org/aali
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Graduation!
The State of Black Arizona proudly shared the graduation ceremonies for the 6th cohort in Phoenix presented by Arizona Public Service, and the 3rd cohort in Southern Arizona of the African American Leadership Institute (AALI) in partnership with the African American Legacy Fund (AALF), a fund of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona. The ceremony marks the culmination of an intensive 10-week masterclass program. Congratulations go to Southern Arizonans:
- Kim Dudley - Southwest Gas
- Minnette Powell - Rising Star Baptist Church
- Desiree Hammond – Greater Tucson Leadership
- Greg Wilson – Pima Community College
- Tessa Marshall – Wells Fargo Bank
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Southern Arizona Graduation Ceremony
will be hosted on Saturday, December 9th, 11am - 1pm
Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
5049 E Broadway Blvd #201, Tucson, AZ 85711
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RSVP to CEO Teniqua Broughton (she/her/hers)
teniqua@stateofblackarizona.org
W: 480-808-8455 ext 2015 C: 480-707-9977
The State of Black Arizona is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization.
24 W Camelback Rd #558, Phoenix, AZ 85013
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Are you a non-profit organization?
Are you enthusiastic about exploring the possibility of initiating your own Radio Station?
For further information, please reach out to Jennifer Davis Paige at askforjenn@gmail.com
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The Links, Incorporated | Tucson Chapter
We are almost sold out!
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It's exciting to hear that "The Color Purple" is being adapted once again, this time with a star-studded cast for a new feature film. The original novel, written by Alice Walker in 1982, explored the lives of African Americans in the early 1900s.
"The Color Purple" has always been celebrated for its empowering and poignant storytelling, shedding light on important themes such as racism, sexism, and the resilience of the human spirit. We love seeing the legacy of such a powerful and influential story being brought to life once more for a new generation of viewers.
Tickets information and sponsorship opportunities are below.
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Jazz in Pink Concert! - Tucson Jazz Society
Coming during Black History Month
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7:00 PM on Saturday,
February 10, 2024
Berger Performing Arts Center
Special performances by Tucson's
Ada Redd Austin & Clazzmates.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite.com
Doors open at 6:00 PM with free parking.
For more information, call +602-860-1411.
Don't miss this extraordinary jazz experience!
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Sierra Vista, Arizona! Fort Huachuca!
McDonald’s started its drive-thru Due to the Military
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McDonald’s is likely the world’s most popular restaurant.
With more than 40,200 locations spread across 100-plus countries, the glow of its golden arches attracts hungry diners around the world.
However, in one Southern Arizona city, that wasn’t always the case. It took installing a special sliding window to bring in tons of patrons, particularly those wearing military uniforms. YES!
The first drive-thru window at McDonald’s was created in 1975
in Sierra Vista, Arizona!
Sierra Vista, Arizona, sits about 20 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, and is about 1 hour from Tucson. This city is home to Arizona’s Fort Huachuca base. While military bases are often good for boosting local businesses, management of the town’s McDonald’s realized that service members often passed by the restaurant without stopping. It wasn’t from lack of hunger; uniform regulations of the time prevented personnel from going into public places on personal business while wearing their uniforms. Soldiers interested in stopping for a burger and fries had to head home and change into civilian clothes before they could place an order. Of course some of them did not return!
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Franchise owner, at the time, David Rich thought up a way his military customers could skirt the rules.
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Taking inspiration from other restaurants like In-N-Out Burger and Jack in the Box — which already had drive-thru windows at the time- he added a sliding window to the side of his building where customers could order and receive their food without leaving their cars. Rich’s drive-thru — the first in McDonald’s history — caught on with the restaurant chain.
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Later that year, a second McDonald’s in Georgia added its own drive-thru, followed by another in Oklahoma City, and by 1979, more than half of McDonald’s 5,000 locations featured drive-thru window. Today, nearly 70% of McDonald’s sales come through its drive-thrus, which are visited by service members and civilians alike.
Hats off to Sierra Vista and Fort Huachuca!
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Our Legacy Founder Investors | | |
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Thank you to our
Legacy Founder Investors
COX, TEP,
Elliott Family Charity, and Zuckerman Family Foundation
For your unwavering support!
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A Bench on the U of Arizona Campus for
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
We hope you have visited the Women's Plaza of Honor, as it is a truly peaceful place. If you have not visited, stop by or visit online at Women's Plaza of Honor and African American Women’s Arch. Did you know that there will be a bench on the plaza that honors former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg?
Women and Gender Studies, in collaboration with AAMSAZ, are working toward securing a bench placed on the Women’s Plaza of Honor in tribute to
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson,
the first African American woman to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. Please help us raise the $15,000 for the bench in her honor. Any amount helps, and you can also purchase a sponsorship for an engraved tile with your organization's or family's name or simple design. Please be sure to note that your donation is for the Ketanji Brown Jackson Bench. Thank you!
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Supporting AAMSAZ
We love hearing from you!
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Gifts in any amount are always welcomed. Please use our easy and secure online giving site.
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Do you have a legacy story or an oral history to share? How about an African American or Black collection that you want to donate to AAMSAZ? Let's connect. Please email us and let us know at AAMuseumofSouthernAZ@gmail.com.
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Join our team of volunteers!
Join the effort to preserve African American history and culture in Southern Arizona. AAMSAZ welcomes volunteers. No matter what your abilities are, we are committed to finding meaningful ways for you to contribute. Please contact us at AAMuseumofSouthernAZ@gmail.com to learn how you can volunteer and for more information on volunteer training sessions.
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The US Mint
The American Women Quarters Program has honored a total of 20 women who have made a lasting impact and played significant roles in shaping our nation's history.
The 2025 American Women’s Quarter Program will honor two African American Women,
Althea Gibson and Ida B. Wells.
Althea Gibson was a pioneering figure in the world of sports, particularly in tennis and golf. She broke racial barriers in tennis by becoming the first African American to compete at the U.S. National Championships in 1950, marking a historic moment. Throughout her tennis career, Gibson won numerous titles, including Wimbledon, U.S. and French Open championships in both singles and doubles. A decade later, in 1960, she became the first African American to compete on the women's professional golf tour.
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Born into slavery, Ida B. Wells was a remarkable figure who became a civil rights activist, feminist, journalist, researcher, and educator. She was a vocal critic of segregation, a staunch advocate against lynching, and a prominent fighter for Black women's suffrage. Her efforts included founding several civil rights organizations, including co-founding the NAACP(National Association for the Advancement of Colored People). Ida B. Wells made significant contributions to the civil rights movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The coin program is an important step in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women who have championed change and improved progress in their unique ways. Janet Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, collaborated with various organizations to select the awardees, making the program a symbol of women's empowerment and sharing their impact on American (and African American) history.
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The NFL and an All-Black Leadership Team
The Las Vegas Raiders have indeed made significant history within the NFL by assembling an all-Black leadership group, which is a groundbreaking milestone in NFL history.
Sandra Douglass Morgan's appointment as the first African American Female president in the NFL is a noteworthy achievement. Her background as a Las Vegas-based attorney brings a unique perspective to the role, and her leadership will likely bring new ideas and strategies to the organization.
Antonio Pierce, a former New York Giants player, has been promoted to interim head coach after spending time as the Raiders' line backer’s coach. His experience both as a player and a coach likely contributes to his understanding of the game, and his new role demonstrates the team's confidence in his abilities.
Champ Kelly, previously associated with the Denver Broncos and the Chicago Bears, is another key figure within the Raiders' leadership. His background as a former player and his experience in managerial positions with other NFL teams could bring valuable insights to his role as the interim general manager.
The fact that the Raiders have assembled an all-Black leadership group is a significant step forward for diversity and representation within upper management in the NFL.
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Sign Up for Tours and Visits
Tours or visits to the African American Museum of Southern Arizona are by appointment only
Wednesday through Saturday
10 AM – 4 PM.
Schedule a tour by signing up online. Please check our schedule and sign up using the AAMSAZ
website sign-up page!
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General Admission to the museum is free.
Please consider Making a Donation in any amount. Thank you!
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Please know that we do not share or distribute emails that we receive. | |
Find AAMSAZ on Facebook and Twitter. Use #aamsaz and #aams_AZ on your social media posts. | | | | |
