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AAMSAZ Updates

December 2024

Celebrating the Season: Embracing Joy and Connections

The holiday season always fills me with inspiration and energy. There’s something so special about cooking, baking, and savoring the warm aromas that fill the house, not to mention the colorful lights and beautiful decorations that make everything feel magical. Of course, I know this isn’t the case for everyone. The holidays can bring a mix of emotions, and it’s important to remember that there’s always something available to support us—no matter where we are in our journey.


Whether the season fills you with joy or a bit of chaos (and sometimes both!) or maybe even a little sorrow, sharing our thoughts and experiences can make this time of year feel more relatable and unifying. After all, the holidays are about connecting with one another, acknowledging both the positive energy and the challenges that come with all the holidays.


As you navigate the hustle and bustle of spending time with friends, family, and community, we’re excited to celebrate several important holidays this December, including:

  • Christmas (Dec. 25th)
  • Hanukkah (Dec. 25th – Jan. 2nd)
  • Kwanzaa (Dec. 26th – Jan. 1st)

In the spirit of celebration, we’ve put together a quick list of December holidays, to help make your holiday season a little brighter and more fun. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or a little extra holiday cheer, a something to comfort you like a nice hug, we’re here to help make this season memorable!



Wishing you peace, joy, and all the warmth this season has to offer.

In Community,

Beverely Elliott, Executive Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

We are a movement, not just a museum!

December membership and Donor Drive is Still Live

Last year alone, with your help, we were able to:

  • Provide 152 tours in 2024.
  • Go out and share our knowledge with 38 companies and businesses, including table events.

Join Us Today!

"Fall In and be All In”

AAMSAZ’s Annual Membership Drive

At AAMSAZ, we’re celebrating our achievements and embracing the rich cultural heritage of Southern Arizona.

Thank you, Southern Arizona...we’re exploring historical subjects and uncovering captivating stories through research about people like you, so contact us and share your stories!

We deeply appreciate your belief in our mission and vision.

  • If you’re receiving our newsletter and haven’t joined us yet, we invite you to take the next step and become a member of AAMSAZ!

We hope you're ready to “Fall In and Be All In” with AAMSAZ!


Membership Benefits:

  • Early Access: Get exclusive information about our fundraisers before anyone else.
  • Exclusive Invitations: Attend special virtual programs designed just for our members.
  • Make a Difference: Your membership helps support researchers, curators, and educators dedicated to creating a brighter, more sustainable world.


Join our “Fall In and Be All In”

Membership Campaign today and be part of our shared future!

Join Now

Become a part of assisting us as we share high-quality educational programming, engaging content, and impactful cultural information with our community and the world.

Become A Member!
Become A Donor!

We’ve got cookies” — National Cookie Day (Dec. 4th)

National Blue Jeans Day (Dec. 5th).

Love light and aromas — Candle Day (Dec. 7th). Kimmie Neal

December Holidays — 2024

  • National Human Rights Month: Advocate for equality, dignity, and justice for all.
  • National Write a Business Plan Month: Plan your next big venture as the year ends.
  • Season of Giving Month: Spread kindness and generosity in your community.
  • National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month: Stay safe and responsible on the roads.
Donate to Support Our Mission!

Museum Updates

Temporary Closure During University Winter Break

Museum Closed for Winter Break: December 12th — January 15th

We will close for a few weeks while the University is on Winter Break.

We understand that this closure may cause some inconvenience, and we appreciate your understanding and patience during this time. We are dedicated to providing you with an exceptional museum experience.

See you next Year!

JOIN US FOR AN EVENING

with THE DOCTOR

A Fireside Chat, With Dr. J Thursday, January 16th

Join us as we have an exciting opportunity for our community:

A Fireside Chat with basketball legend Julius Winfield Erving II, Famously Known as Dr. J. This event will provide an intimate platform for the community to engage with one of the most iconic figures in the history of professional basketball.

Location:

Palo Verde High Magnet School

1302 S Avenida Vega,

Tucson, AZ 85710

Date & Time:

Thursday, January 16th

VIP Reception: 4:30 PM

Program: 6:00 PM

Sponsorships are Available for this Community Event Featuring

Dr. J – Julius W. Erving II

Join us for a Night with The Doctor

Sponsorship Information

SAVE The DATE

Frederick Douglass' BIRTHDAY Celebration is back

February 14th

We know you’re busy, so You can join us virtually from anywhere in the country….

 Or come to the UA Library!

This year we will be working on transcribing the


African American Perspectives Collection from the Library of Congress.


As ever, more info is available here: 

https://douglassday.org/ and https://douglassday.substack.com/


Have you ever heard of Mary Church Terrell?

Her fully transcribed archive as a dataset is linked here: 

https://loc.gov/item/2021387726.

Her story is the outcome of the 2021 transcription effort! 

Stay Tuned for a list of Upcoming Events during

MLK Holiday Days and

Black History Month Activities!

Community News!

“The Greatest Story Never Told”

Written and Directed by Michael Bland.

This heartwarming play reimagines the classic story of the birth of Jesus, told from the unique perspective of The Star of Bethlehem. Discover how the star was chosen for the important task of guiding the way to the birth of Jesus. Filled with comedy, music, dance, and powerful life lessons, this production is a perfect holiday experience for the whole family! Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey — we can't wait to share this special story with you!

Saturday, December 14th

6 pm at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church,

2800 E. 36th St, Tucson, AZ, 85713


Free admission; Donations Accepted!

Save the Date - MLK Basketball

Date: January 20, 2025

Location:

McKale Center/University of Arizona


Admission  $6 for Students / Adults $10...one fee-six games!

Come on out and spend the day!

Games Starting at 9:00 AM

AIA Passes will be accepted at the event.

"Stolen Moments": Jazz and American History

“Stolen Moments” goes beyond the music. It reveals the fascinating interplay between jazz and 20th-century American culture. “Stolen Moments” gives a vibrant window into American history and an appreciation of the power of music to unify, inspire, and change the world.

  • School show: Stolen Moments: American History, through the Lens of Jazz
  • Details: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 10 AM at the Fox Tucson Theatre
  • Event page: https://foxtucson.com/event/stolen-moments/
  • Grades: 4th and up
  • Brief summary: Immerse students in the electrifying world of jazz! Both captivating and informative, the show’s combination of a live jazz quintet, spoken word, and video projection takes students on a journey through American history and how it was shaped by jazz. It’s a story of breaking down barriers, celebrating diversity, and pushing artistic boundaries.
  • Video:  https://vimeo.com/71840056?share=copy
  • $8/ticket, whether student or teacher/chaperone.
  • For school groups only, including homeschool groups.

National Day of Racial Healing: A Call for Unity and Collective Action

Join us for the National Day of Racial Healing on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 1:00pm - 6:00pm at the YWCA Southern Arizona, located at 525 N Bonita Ave, Tucson, AZ.

This free, all-ages event will feature:

  • Cultural performances
  • Discussions on healing from racism
  • Art and poetry contest recognition
  • Family-friendly activities

Let’s come together in our shared humanity to inspire collective action and create a more just and equitable world!


Supported by local organizations like the NAACP Tucson Branch and Culture of Peace Alliance.

Thank you Murreylle Bothwell!

Tucson’s Winter Gem and Mineral Show

February 1 - 16, 2025  - (SAVE The DATE)

https://www.visittucson.org/tucson-gem-mineral-fossil-showcase/shows/

Each winter....Yes, it is coming! That’s when Tucson transforms into a dazzling hub for gem enthusiasts, jewelry lovers, mineral collectors, and fossil fans during the world-renowned 

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase!

 This year, more than 65,000 visitors from around the world will flock to Tucson, for an immersive experience that spans three weeks. Tucson's Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Showcase is coming back to town February 1 - February 16, 2025. 

Visit Tucson will be producing, in partnership with Madden Media, the Official Gem Guide for 2025.The Guide will be formatted in a handy pocket size pamphlet that will include a quick reference map and chart to help visitors easily find shows and vendors.


There are over 40 gem show locations scattered across the city, and the showcase offers an opportunity to buy, sell, and trade rare and mesmerizing gems, minerals, and fossils. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone !

Planning to visit Tucson? Mark your calendar for this not-to-be-missed event. Alongside the main shows, you'll find related events, educational talks, great food, and even a Free day at the Gem & Mineral Museum; founder Mr. Alan Norville - Thank you Mr. Norville and an AAMSAZ donor, and director Violette Wolf have organized a wonderful place to learn and enjoy pure beauty! It's the perfect chance to explore Tucson's vibrant gem and mineral scene while enjoying the city's warm hospitality.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary extravaganza.

Save The Date:

Songstress Gladys Knight

is coming to the Fox Theater

December 4, 2024 @ 7:30

https://foxtucson.com/event/gladys-knight/


The great ones endure, and Gladys Knight has long been one of the greatest. Very few singers over the last sixty years have matched her unassailable artistry. This seven-time GRAMMY Award winner has enjoyed #1 hits in Pop, Gospel, R&B, and Adult Contemporary, and has triumphed in film, television, and live performances.  

I like Music, any kind of music! (Sing it like the O'Jays!)


Growing up in Michigan, just 20 minutes from Detroit, everyone had a copy of the Motown Christmas Album! I still have several!


If you love Christmas songs, you absolutely won’t want to miss this performance. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”, “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”, “Let It Snow”, “Silent Night” and more done with Motown Style!

It’s going to be Holiday Night to remember!  

Shadows of the ’60s: A Holiday Tribute to Motown

Save the Date and buy your tickets NOW!

December 14, 2024 7:30

Get ready for a night of Motown magic of the 60s! Celebrate the legendary hits of The Four Tops, The Temptations, and more, plus classic Christmas favorites with a Motown twist! From “Silent Night” to “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” experience the festive cheer in this stunning tribute. Get ready for soulful voices, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable choreography. Join us for a holiday show that will have you dancing all night long! 

 Thank you Phoebe Chalk Wadsworth!

National News

Boyz II Men…

The Philly group that helped define the sound and style of '90s R&B, will soon have their story told in a biopic and documentary currently in development. The group has partnered with production companies Compelling Pictures and Primary Wave for the project, with Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Wanya Morris serving as executive producers.


Nathan Morris shared that the partnership with Compelling Pictures felt natural, as the team truly understands their story. The biopic will cover the band's journey over three decades, showcasing their Grammy-winning music career and the ups and downs they've experienced along the way.

Photo by Lunchbox LP from Culver City, CA, USA. Available under CC BY 2.0. Source: Boyz II Men on Walmart Soundcheck

Larry Metsel of Primary Wave noted that Boyz II Men is one of the most influential groups of their generation, transcending genres, and the goal is to introduce their legacy to a new generation.

Giving and Sharing

Our Legacy Founder Investors

Our Legacy Founder Investors (LFI)

COX,

TEP,

Elliott Family Charity,


Zuckerman Family Foundation,


Tucson Foundation


Thank you for your

unwavering support

Supporting AAMSAZ

We love hearing from you!

  • Gifts in any amount are always welcomed. Please use our easy and secure online giving site.
  • 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

Our Website:

AAMSAZ.org

Seeking Volunteers

Join our team of volunteers!

Join the effort to preserve African American history and culture in Southern Arizona. AAMSAZ welcomes volunteers. Background checks will be conducted. We are committed to finding meaningful ways for you to contribute. Please contact us at AAMuseumofSouthernAZ@gmail.com to learn how you can volunteer.

We hope to see you soon!

Sign Up for Tours and Visits


Tours or visits to the AAMSAZ are by appointment only, available


Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. (Note: Friday hours are 10 AM to 3 PM.)


Schedule a tour by signing up online. Please check our schedule and sign up using the AAMSAZ

website sign-up page!

General Admission to the museum is free

Please consider Making a Donation in any amount. Thank you!

Please know that we do not share or distribute emails that we receive.

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