AAMSAZ Updates from the E.D.
April 2024
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Despite the bustling activity during U of A’s spring break from March 4th–11th, the past month has been one of immense productivity for us at the African American Museum of Southern Arizona. We've been diligently working behind the scenes to bring you enriching experiences and furthering our mission of preserving and celebrating our cultural heritage.
Our efforts have ranged from preparing for the upcoming Fall Tea Fundraiser in collaboration with Pima Community College, 7 Cups Tea House, and Toni Ham Designs.
A fashion show and hat auction that will leave you thinking you can purchase a few items and attend a Royal event or at least the Kentucky Derby!
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It's Our Crowning Glory! – Steeping with Fashion
Save the Date! More Coming Soon!
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April is designated as the National Month of Hope.
And hope means looking toward the future and we at the museum are so excited that we have done so following prudent guidance from so many of you. Thank you!
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We're proud to announce that
our efforts have been recognized –
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The African American Museum of Southern Arizona | |
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We are incredibly grateful for the leadership of our dedicated Executive Director, Beverely Elliott, and Board Chair, Bob Elliott, as they guide us towards an incredible milestone! Your voluntary dedication and remarkable efforts are essential to making the museum a place of historical significance.
By: Jenny Li - Curator
| This certification is a testament to our commitment to excellence and adherence to best practices, as outlined by the American Association of State and Local History and the American Alliance of Museums. It's an honor to be acknowledged for our dedication to preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Southern Arizona's African American community. | |
Here at the African American Museum of Southern Arizona, our we work to craft an educational experience that resonates with everyone who walks through our doors. Despite being open for just over a year, our museum has experienced remarkable growth, largely thanks to the incredible support from our surrounding community. With only one full-time employee and a fraction of the budget compared to larger museums in the area, the invaluable contributions of our volunteers and interns are vital to our success. Their tireless efforts complement our mission, enabling us to expand our offerings and engage with a diverse audience, ensuring that our museum remains a beacon of culture and history in Southern Arizona. | |
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We make sure to utilize every bit of the generous donations we receive to bring our museum to life. Despite our modest 1100 square feet of space, our dedicated team works diligently to curate an impressive array of 17 exhibits, each intricately related to the rich history and culture of Southern Arizona. From exploring the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers to delving into the first African American head basketball coach right here at the University of Arizona, every visitor is certain to discover a wealth of new information and insights.
Our commitment to maximizing our resources ensures that each exhibit offers a unique and compelling narrative, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the diverse stories of African Americans in our region.
By: Michael Frees - Intern
Funds gifted by TEP for the Eller College & AAMSAZ
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We want to encourage you…our community, to purchase a tile on our Bench for the Bench honoring Ketanji Brown Jackson! |
- She is the First African American woman to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court.
- You can purchase a sponsorship for an engraved tile with your organization's name, logo, or your family's name or a simple design.
- Go to our website for more information, and be sure to note that your donation is for the Ketanji Brown Jackson (KBJ) Bench!
Thank you.
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We're exploring potential partnerships with wonderful supporters. The Loft Cinema, Mission Garden and the Juneteenth Festival, Inc. have been there from the start. Newcomers such as Kadar Hamilton and Chelsea Lewis of Raytheons’ BXN, The ATC (Arizona Theater Company) we look forward to working with you.
This spring season, we're exicted to announce plans for new exhibitions coming in the fall. However, as always, financial support is crucial to realizing these endeavors. We're activly pursing donors to assist with the costs.
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To update you further, we're thrilled to inform you that we have acquired additional digital/ electronic screens. These screens will serve to showcase a way to select Oral Historians, Legacy Stories, and Arizona History, reflecting our ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing our collective narratives.
Amidst all these activities, we've also dedicated time to ensuring we adhere to the highest museum standards and protocols.
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Attention Museum Visitors | |
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During the upcoming summer break at the University of Arizona,
We will be closed from July 3rd - July 24th
Please be advised that the museum may operate with limited hours only on certain Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
- This adjustment is necessary for essential tasks such as exhibit cleaning, equipment maintenance, and develoment of new exhibitions that will enhance your museum experience. We'll keep you informed with any updates as summer approaches.
Thank you for understanding and your continued support.
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American Association of State and Local History:
Mission: AASLH provides leadership and resources to help the history community thrive and make history more meaningful to all people.
American Alliance of Museums:
Mission: It is to champion museums and nurture excellence in partnership with our members and allies.
The Museum Association of Arizona:
It exists to build a vital museum community. We strengthen all of Arizona’s museums so they are recognized as essential to the fabric of their communities. We do this through professional development, advocacy, and the creation of networking opportunities across the state.
Association of African American Museums:
It is a non-profit member organization established to support African and African American focused museums nationally and internationally, as well as the professionals who protect, preserve and interpret African and African American art, history and culture.
Arizona Historial Society:
Mission: Connecting people through the power of Arizona’s history.
Vision: The Arizona Historical Society seeks to be the driving force strengthening Arizona’s communities by promoting history through leadership, partnership and scholarship.
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25th Anniversary and Scholarship Awards Dinner | |
On the evening of Saturday, March 16, 2024, the Doubletree Hotel hosted a grand occasion—the 25th Anniversary and Scholarship Awards Dinner, proudly presented by The Greater Southern Arizona Area Chapter of the 9th and 10th (Horse) Cavalry Association. Embodying the spirit of the 10th Cavalry, whose motto is "Ready and Forward," the evening promised an unforgettable experience. Attendees were treated to a delightful buffet dinner accompanied by the soulful melodies of the Silk and Soul Band. Moreover, the evening sparkled with anticipation as guests eagerly participated in a raffle boasting an impressive array of prizes. | |
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The museum placed an advertisement and were guests of Trooper Jon Covington. Jamie Clark and Rose Taulton, our premier volunteers, represented the museum in great fashion as always. | |
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Museum Donors
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Bothwell
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AAMSAZ Volunteers Rose Taulton and Jamie Clark | |
Black Excellence in Tucson! | |
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On Saturday, March 23rd, we had the honor of attending and hosting a table at the
Black Excellence Tucson Resource Fair. This was an amazing event that encouraged families of K-12 students to attend and learn more about the college preparation process and get to know organizations on and around campus. We would like to give a huge thank you to our intern, Michael Frees, and volunteer, Jamie Clark for setting up our table and spreading awareness of the African American Museum of Southern Arizona and all that we have to offer. With an estimated attendance of over 137 families, it would be an understatement to say this event was a major success. After the event, we opened our doors and welcomed over 90 community members and families to tour the museum. We appreciate everyone who comes to see the museum......we love sharing information that will have you saying, "I didn't know that!"
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This event was hosted on the first floor of the UA Bookstore, and we are immensely grateful to them for their invitation. We are so excited to see how the first floor looks after their renovations when they open back up in August. This location is perfect if you are looking to host an event on campus.
Please reach out to the Manager of Community Outreach and Engagement of the Bookstore, Yadhi Acevedo, with any business inquiries. She can be contacted at:Yadhia@arizona.edu
By: Michael Frees - Intern
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Big Success! Tucson Book Festival | We're thrilled to share the excitement of this year's Tucson Festival of Books, which once again graced the U of A Campus with an array of remarkable authors and guests! A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated intern and curator, Esme Canelos and Jenny Li, whose presence truly made a difference. | |
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With the museum open this year druing the Festival of Books, we proudly stood behind the importance of reading and literacy, enhancing the journeys of thousands of attendees. Over the weekend, we welcomed almost 200 visitors, adding their own unique spark to the celebration of literature. | |
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We are so proud of our local African American Authors!
Guess What? Marquez Price has released his latest book,
| "Return of the Observer." | |
Love of Reading is an All-Year-Round Activity
So we hope you will order this amazing book of essays!
| We are so proud of you Marquez! Congratulations! | |
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"Return of the Observer" beckons readers on an illuminating voyage through its collection of essays, unveiling profound insights into our world. With a kaleidoscope of topics and perspectives, it delves into the intricacies of our shared human experience, inviting contemplation and reflection.
This book promises a treasure trove for every reader, whether an avid bookworm or simply craving a captivating narrative. Embark on this enriching journey and discover something uniquely compelling within its pages.
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@marquez_prc (Instagram)
www.mpricebooks.com
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Thank you Dr. Carter!
The Director of the Center for Digital Humanities
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We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Bryan Carter on designing digital projects for the museum, including our robot tour guide Temi, upcoming 3D exhibitions.
Dr. Carter is the Director of the Digital Humanities Center and Professor of Africana Studies at the University of Arizona. He specializes in 20th-century African American literature, with a particular focus on the Harlem Renaissance.
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You can watch the video below if you missed Dr. Carter's insightful presentation on the Harlem Renaissance.
Stay tuned for more exciting exhibits related to the Harlem Renaissance, which will be coming soon in collaboration with Dr. Carter!
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Video narrated by Dr. Carter
Video production by COX and Jenny Li (AAMSAZ)
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Pathways to Impact Symposium:
Engaging for Impact
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We appreciate the collaboration with the UA Societal Impact Department. Our curator, Jenny, represented the museum at this amazing event.
It was a fantastic opportunity for community engagement, and we were thrilled to share information and African American history with outstanding community and campus organizations. This enriching networking event included community partners, Native and Indigenous organizations, civic groups, and Arizona community members.
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We are proud of Bob and Beverely Elliott! | |
"Congratulations to Bob and Beverely for being spotlighted in "Tucson Lifestyle" as one of Tucson's "Couples of Impact!" You two rock, and so proud of you and your many accomplishments. The Tucson community is blessed to have you both among us. | |
Quote By: Daisy M. Jenkins, Esq.
AAMSAZ Board of Directors
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A huge thank you to Deanna Lopez for inviting us to tour West Press! Our Executive Director, Beverely, and Curator, Jenny attended. The tour showcased all the amazing ways West Press can support us and you! We are excited about the possibilities as we gather more ideas! Deanna's generosity and expertise are truly appreciated. We encourage everyone to dive into the creative opportunities at West Press.
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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. | | |
Fort Lowell Neighborhood Walking Tour | |
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The Fort Lowell (Park) vicinity transcends its historical role as a mere fort and strategic site for the pivotal Native American campaign against Geronimo. Ken Scoville, a respected historian and preservationist, leads an illuminating tour highlighting the diverse cultural strata of Tucson found at this historic Fort. This area boasts a rich flavor of history, where layers of Tucson's vast past converge.
At the convergence of the Pantano Wash and Tanque Verde Creek lies an oasis of water and trees, later evolving into the Rillito (or "little river"). This natural allure attracted numerous inhabitants throughout history. Dating back to the first century AD, the Hohokam and subsequent agricultural communities cultivated the land.
In the 19th century, the area's water resources once again beckoned settlers, drawing immigrants from Mexico, Americans moving west, and prompting the establishment of a United States military presence there in 1873.
| $20/member, $30/non-member / Fort Lowell is at the park at 2900 N. Craycroft Rd. | |
Unveiling the Wonders: Behind BIO5's Meet the Scientists Event
Save the date for an upcoming event, "Behind BIO5: Meet the Scientists," hosted by the UArizona BIO5 Institute. On Wednesday, April 3, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., this event promises to be a unique opportunity for our community to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of scientific exploration. Have a junior scientist in your home? Bring them!
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We encourage you to join UArizona BIO5 Institute for the KEYS Alumni Showcase and Fireside Chats (5-6:30 p.m.), where you can engage with our vibrant community of scientists. They will also be hosting laboratory tours with our BIO5 researchers. | |
Tour spots are limited to ensure a memorable experience. To secure your place on one of our lab tours, you can register at https://bio5.org/behind-bio5
Registration is not required for the KEYS showcase or fireside chats
| We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable BIO5 Experience and an evening of scientific excellence with our community! | |
Black Rodeo USA
Get ready for an unforgettable rodeo experience in 2024!
SAVE THE DATE!
Put on your boots and Join us!
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Mark your calendars for these exciting Rodeos:
- Jun 8: Jacksonville, Florida
Come on out:
- Aug 30-31: Scottsdale, Arizona
- Oct 11-12: Las Vegas, Nevada
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But wait, there's more! If you want to travel...Here are additional rodeo dates:
- May 25: Jackson, Mississippi
- Jul 12: Bakersfield, California
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April 2024 — National Month of Hope | |
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INVISIBLE WARRIORS
AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN IN WORLD WAR II
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On April 5, 2024,
Check out
The Premiere of a documentary, and our
Inaugural National Black Women's Labor Day.
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The documentary will air on
April 5, 2024, at 8:00 PM (EDT),
5:00 PM MST – see the link below.
Remember African American History is American History
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This occasion honors the invaluable contributions made by African American women across American history, recognizing their profound influence during World War II. | |
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Introducing Invisible Warriors: Honoring True Pioneers
The Compound Prejudice of Being African American and a Woman!
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Step into the remarkable world of Invisible Warriors, a groundbreaking documentary showcasing the unsung sheroes of history. These were not just any workers—they were the pioneering African American women who shattered barriers in industry and government service during World War II. | |
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Invisible Warriors captures the poignant stories of these trailblazers, affectionately known as "Rosie the Riveters," as they reflect on their experiences during a pivotal moment in history. These women, hailing from diverse backgrounds, share their journey from lives as domestics and sharecroppers to becoming integral figures in war production and government offices.
With unwavering determination and resilience, these patriotic pioneers recount their struggles against racism, both at home and abroad, as well as the pervasive sexism of the era. Through their stories, we witness not only their personal battles but also the collective triumph over adversity.
These extraordinary women represent a legacy of resilience, embodying the spirit of over 600,000 individuals who defied the odds of the Great Depression, Jim Crow laws, and workplace discrimination. As part of a sisterhood of 20 million women who fueled America's "arsenal of democracy," their contributions were indispensable to the nation's victory in World War II.
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Peanuts’ First Black Character Gets A Story
In New Apple TV+ Special | Photo: Apple TV+
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Every member of the Peanuts gang has a unique and origin story, and now, it's time to learn all about Franklin!
In the highly anticipated Apple TV+ Peanuts Special, "Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin," audiences are treated to the fascinating backstory of Charlie Brown's cherished friend, Franklin Armstrong.
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Franklin is known as Charlie's busy friend with a passion for music and sports (a little stereotypical); however, his significance as the first Black character in the Peanuts universe adds layers of depth to his character. | Introduced to the Peanuts gang in 1968, Franklin's creation was sparked by a heartfelt letter from schoolteacher Harriet Glickman to comic creator Charles M. Schulz. In the wake of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Glickman urged Schulz to diversify the comic strip landscape. | |
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In a poignant tribute to Schulz's legacy, acclaimed illustrator and cartoonist Robb Armstrong, whose connection to Franklin runs as deep as his namesake, was brought on board for the project.
Armstrong, known for his widely syndicated daily strip "Jump Start," which draws inspiration from Schulz's work, infused Franklin's character with authenticity and cultural richness.
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The special captures Franklin's vibrant personality, showcasing moments of being African American as he embraces his identity, from fixing his curly hair to sharing his love for iconic musicians like Stevie Wonder and James Brown.
Kimberlee and everyone.....
Don't miss out on this groundbreaking special, streaming now on Apple TV+! 🍿📺
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Marilyn Jackson Named the New President and CEO of the
American Alliance of Museums
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Following an extensive nationwide search, Marilyn Jackson has been named the President and CEO of the American Alliance of Museums. Assuming her duties on April 22, 2024, Jackson brings with her a wealth of experience, presently serving as the President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky. | |
American Alliance of Museums | Respected for her strategic acumen in the nonprofit realm and fervent commitment to education, she adopts an entrepreneurial mindset. With a notable fourteen-years of experience in the cultural sector, Marilyn Jackson's appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first person of color and the first Black woman to be at the helm of the AAM. | |
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Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Tragic Event of April 4, 1968
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On April 4, 1968, tragedy struck as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was fatally shot while standing on a balcony of a hotel in Memphis, Tennessee.
- At the time, Dr. King was in the city to lend his support to the growing Poor People's Campaign and to stand in solidarity with Black sanitation workers who were protesting against low wages and poor working conditions.
The strike had commenced about two months earlier, with 1,300 African American sanitation workers in Memphis demanding better pay and fair treatment. However, despite their efforts, city officials showed little willingness to engage in negotiations or address their grievances. Faced with this indifference, the workers turned to prominent civil rights figures, including Dr. King, for assistance.
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Dr. King wholeheartedly embraced their cause and, on March 18, had addressed a crowd of over 15,000 people in Memphis, rallying support for the workers' plight. His visit was intended to galvanize action and bring attention to the injustices faced by the marginalized workers. Tragically, his untimely death marked a profound loss for the civil rights movement and left a lasting impact on the struggle for equality and social justice. | |
Our Legacy Founder Investors | | |
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Our Legacy Founder Investors (LFI)
COX,
TEP,
Elliott Family Charity,
Zuckerman Family Foundation,
Mooney Foundation
Thank you for your
unwavering support!
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Gender and Women Studies will place a bench on the Women's Plaza of Honor in honor of Supreme Court Justice Ginsberg!
While you're visiting the bench take a look at the African American Women's Arch!
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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. 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.
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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. | | | | |
