Updates from the E.D. February 2024 | |
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It’s February, It’s Black History Month!
We will celebrate African American voices and stories leading up to and throughout this month and all year long!
Let’s celebrate our Arizona historians, writers, artists, and more, and share and acknowledge both the adversities and incredible triumphs that are integral to Southern Arizona.
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- Support a Black-Owned Business.
- Read a book by an African American author.
- Try a little soul food.
- Purchase music and art By African American Artists.
- Check out American Fiction (movie).
- Head to the Gem Shows African Village!
| Kindred – Our Black Librarians! | |
(Books written by and about African Americans)
Thank you, Jessica Pryde – Librarian, Author, and Podcast producer.
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The Artivist by Nikkolas Smith - has inspiring text and stunning illustrations, a call to action for young readers to point out injustice in their lives and try to heal the broken bones of the world through their art.
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Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman—remember the Biden Inauguration—here she explores history, language, identity, and erasure through an imaginative and intimate collage.
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A Mighty Long Way by Carlotta Walls LaNier - She will be our guest to kick off Black History Month. A story about her experiences and being one of the Little Rock Nine!
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We're part of a community with several cultural institutions and museums that share our stories with people around the world. Our website is where you'll find specially curated content related to oral histories, legacy stories, tours, and more! | |
We hope you’re planning your next visit to the museum! | |
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Your Crown and Glory—a new display with most hats designed by Ms. Toni Ham/Miliner. This display shares with our guests the importance of hats in African American culture.
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Dunbar – Tucson’s Best in the Desert! Dunbar Historian shares her story and how her love of Dunbar made an impact in her life along with the Tucson Community. You can set up a tour with Barbara at Dunbar at: https://thedunbartucson.org/
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Our Traveling Pop Up Exhibits include: | |
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You Can’t Live HERE!—Mapping Racist Covenants—Redlining in Tucson. It will take to you to a website to view maps and more!
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Sister Sissertta Jones—Opera Singer Black Patti (because there was a White Patti)
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Just a few—Buffalo Soldiers! Over 100,000 former enslaved and free African Americans became soldiers following the end of the Civil War. Many of them served and lived here in Southern Arizona.
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Coming soon: Roots/Alex Haley—A local man who worked on the set of Paramount Pictures shares his insights and photos of what it was like on the set of “Roots” and “Roots the Next Generation.”
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Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to The African American Museum of Southern Arizona.
Your engagement has enabled us to research, elevate, and promote an inclusive and expansive identity of Southern Arizona History!
Your generosity will enable us to be sustainable and provide information about our community for years to come! Thank you in advance for your support!
We are part of a community with several cultural institutions and museums that share our stories with people around the world. Our website is where you'll find specially curated content related to oral histories, legacy stories, tours, and more involving southern Arizonans.
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New Recorded Oral History | Deanna Lewis, originally from Albany, New York, a graduate of Santa Rita HS, has been a Tucsonan for 44 years. Her groundbreaking journey with the Tucson Fire Department began on January 30th, 1984, when she became its first female - a Female African American - firefighter. As 2024 marks the 40th anniversary of this historic achievement, Deanna reflects on her impactful career. | | |
AAMSAZ Presentation at Pima County Genealogy | |
Our wonderful Director, Beverely, was invited to speak at the Pima County Genealogy Society's Monthly Meeting. Beverely shared her journey in founding the museum, detailing how it continues to evolve and preserve the community's precious history. She also highlighted the museum's achievements in its first year, and we take great pride and gratitude in the museum's existence. Additionally, she shared information about the upcoming events we have planned for Black History Month.
By Jenny Li, Digital Curator
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The audience actively engaged with Beverely, posing numerous questions. It was a wonderful and engaging time! The Tucson attendees and Zoom meeting participants expressed their interest in visiting us in the coming month!
Hope you already joined us and are receiving the newsletter.
We look forward to welcoming you all soon!
| Here's a Clip about Henry Ossian Flipper | |
Tucson artist, historian, and business owner,
Andre Newman (deceased) portrays Henry Ossian Flipper in this video.
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Video provided by Arizona Historical Society
Video edited by Mingde and Jenny Li (African American Museum of Southern Arizona)
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Henry Ossian Flipper (March 21, 1856 – April 26, 1940) was a trailblazing African American soldier and engineer who overcame the challenges of being a former slave.
- In 1877, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point.
- Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, he faced racial prejudice but led the 'A' Troop of the 10th Calvary, making him the first non-white officer to command Buffalo Soldiers.
- Despite serving with distinction during the Apache Wars, rumors led to a court-martial and his dismissal.
- Posthumously pardoned in 1999, Flipper's legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance and achievement.
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You’re Invited to a Birthday Party
(There will be cake!)
It's a Transcibe – a – Thon
In honor of
Frederick Douglass
When: Wednesday,
February 14, 2024
Where: Main Library ground floor (2nd)
Rm. B254 - Learning Studio
Time: Drop In between
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
(This takes 15 - 20 minutes of your time but you're welcome to stay longer)
Parking: McKale Center Garage
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Fun Food and More!
Our 1 Year Anniversary
January 14, 2024
We express heartfelt gratitude to our Legacy Founder Investors - TEP, COX, Zuckerman Family Foundation, Elliott Family Charitites, for their continuous support during our inaugural year and before our museum opening.
Special thanks to our Founders, Board of Directors, Advisory Board, Oral and Legacy Historians, Volunteers, Interns, UA Foundation, Facilities Management and all generous donors. Your support has played a vital role in bringing cultural richness to life and creating a space that respects our traditions.
Thank you for believing in our vision; your contributions will have a lasting impact. This has been a year of sharing history, learning more about Southern Arizonans, and building and connecting community.
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Photos credits: Joe Jackson, Mingde & Jenny Li | |
We also celebrate Bob and Beverely for their achievements in the Museum's inaugural year! We commend their exemplary leadership, dedication, and philanthropy. Their sincere appreciation for and their unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting African American history and culture, establishing Arizona's First African American Museum. Their visionary leadership, boundless generosity, and selfless dedication in full-time volunteer positions and legacy founders have shaped the museum into a beacon of knowledge and inspiration. May their achievements continue to inspire generations to come! | We had our new interns on hand, and Michael Frees, our TEP/UA Eller College intern who you have met. We are delighted to introduce you to our talented and beautiful interns for the Spring Semester of 2024! | |
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My name is Al’Tinah Bell. I am an Architecture major here at UA and a Student Intern for AAMSAZ. I look forward to not only learning but sharing knowledge about African Americans in Southern Arizona that helped pave the way for students and others like myself. I encourage you all to come check out the museum and learn more about the history that shapes the world that we know today. Al’ Tinah will be assisting with social media and outreach on campus and in the community.
- She will also be assisting with putting together our newsletter.
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My name is Esme Canelos, and I am a sophomore at the University of Arizona. I am majoring in political science with a minor in history. I am originally from Tucson and wanted to become more involved in the community and preservation of African Americans in Arizona. In my free time, I play music, paint, hang out with friends, and attend concerts and festivals. I am excited for this opportunity to intern with the museum to move toward the goal of learning and preserving Arizona’s African American history.
- She will be assisting with historical research.
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Come to the Gardens and Taste The History! | |
Africa in the Americas Garden!
If you haven’t been to Mission Garden, you should go and enjoy!
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Thanks to the Pro Neighborhoods Endowment Fund held at Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, Mission Garden is offering four more free workshops this coming season for our neighbors and community partners.
Friday & Saturday | February 9 & 10 | 9-11am | Free
Citrus presents some of the most memorable sensory experiences in the fruit world. The blossoms, the zest, the pungent acidic aroma, and the flavors! Our gardens are bursting with citrus: Seville oranges, Valencia oranges, Mexican sweet limes, Meyer lemons, tangerines, kumquats, pomelos, and grapefruits. At this Tasting History, you’ll even learn what to do with those sour oranges growing in your yard!
Saturday, March 2, 9 am to 12 pm: Propagation workshop. A hands-on DIY workshop on how to reproduce your favorite heirloom trees at home. Spaces are limited. Sign up https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E350876&id=72
March 23. 9 am to 12 pm: O’odham basket-making. A hands-on traditional basketry workshop.. Sign up now to reserve your spot at the link below:
https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E350876&id=76
All the workshops will take place at Mission Garden,
946 W. Mission Lane, Tucson, AZ. 85745
We Celebrated Kwanzaa at Mission Garden along with several other groups!
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Free Swim Lessons
We will serve 50 to 100 children (Ages 5 – 18)
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Students Will Get: FREE
A Swim Bag, A pair of Flip flops, Sunscreen, Goggles, A Swim Towel, 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 of Arizona's Student Recreation Center Pool on 6th Street.
- Certified swim instructors will instruct the children.
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For information or to register,
scan the QR code!
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Become a part of bringing high-quality educational programming, engaging content, and impactful cultural information to our community and the world. | | |
Enjoy free admission and explore the Tucson Festival of Books!
March 9-10, 2024
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Congratulations, Arizona Wildcat Antonio Pierce
The New Head Coach for the Las Vegas Raiders!
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Antonio Pierce, a former U of A Wildcat, was an undrafted free agent and signed with the Washington Redskins.
- Pierce played 9 seasons as a linebacker in the NFL and won a Super Bowl with the New York Giants in 2007.
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In 2014, Pierce began his coaching career as the head coach at Long Beach Polytechnic High School and then served as an assistant coach at Arizona State University from 2018 to 2021.
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He previously served as the linebackers coach for the Las Vegas Raiders until being named the head coach.
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Fun Fridays!
Join the Tucson Roadrunners Hockey Team in commemorating Black History Month! Stop in with this special offer!
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With every ticket purchase, you will receive an exclusive Black History Month T-shirt!
- Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate this history, American History, that is a salute to African Americans in our community!
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Tucson-born filmmaker
Cord Jefferson’s
award-winning comedy/drama
AMERICAN FICTION
Check it out at The Loft Cinema!
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The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd.
520-795-0844 / www.loftcinema.org
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Tucson director, Cord Jefferson and
American Fiction are nominated for 5 Oscars!
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Cord Jefferson, a graduate of Canyon del Oro High School right here in Tucson, directed and wrote the film "American Fiction." The film was showcased to his family in Tucson before gaining recognition at various film festivals. |
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The movie received several awards at film festivals, including the People's Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival. It has now been nominated for five Oscars, including Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Film, Original Score, Lead Actor (Jeffrey Wright), and Supporting Actor (Sterling K. Brown).
- This is not Cord’s first award. He earned a Primetime Emmy Award for his work on HBO’s “Watchmen” as well as his contribution to shows like “The Good Place.”
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The screenplay was written after Cord read Percival Everett’s novel “Erasure,” a story that revolves around African American authors' attempt to mock the publishing world.
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Yeah Tucson! Although the original story references Scottsdale, Cord made it all about Tucson giving a SHOUT OUT to his friends and local Tucson bands.
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Come On Tucson: We all should be watching
The 96th Academy Awards, to support "American Fiction,"
which is nominated for 5 Oscars on March 10th!
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Building Community by Celebrating the Art of Diversity and film!
The Loft Cinema has been a mission-driven, membership-supported nonprofit arts organization since 2002, serving the greater Tucson area and all of Southern Arizona.
Films During Black History Month
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Dunbar - "Harambee Celebration" | | |
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Join Dunbar for an unforgettable night at the "Harambee Celebration"!
Immerse yourself in live performances, spoken word, dances, and more as we come together to celebrate unity and community.
Don't forget to don your best African Attire for an extra touch of cultural vibrancy! Let the beats, rhythm, and colors inspire a night to remember.
See you there!
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Dunbar Pavilion
(325 W. 2nd Street, Tucson, AZ)
Saturday February 17, 2024
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Gamma Alpha Boule’ - Thank you!
It was truly commendable to see the dedication of the Gamma Alpha Boule' fraternity of Tucson, led by Sire Archon Ken Alexander, in their annual Christmas morning initiative at Santa Rita Park. Their commitment to serving the homeless community reflects a compassionate and proactive approach to addressing a local need.
- Their involvement of not just the fraternity brothers but also their wives and children demonstrates a collective effort toward making a meaningful impact. They stood steady, and in a short span of time, they provided essentials such as socks, skull caps, toiletries, clothing, and toys.
- This showcases a holistic approach to meeting various needs beyond just food; however, Ken’s Hardwood Barbecue served up meals to over 100 people on Christmas morning. The consistency of their presence and initiatives is vital in fostering a sense of unity, empathy, and support within our community, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
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Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore your genealogy journey with insights from experts!
- Join the 4th Annual Virtual Arizona Genealogy Day on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 9 AM to 3 PM (MST).
- This free virtual event features engaging presentations by esteemed speakers, including Leslie Carney - Asa Espanto, MLIS, Mary Feeney, MLIS, Duane Roen, PhD, Deborah A. Abbott, PhD Thomas MacEntee.
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Plan on it… Plays by Anita | |
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Join "Dad & Me" on March 2, 2024, at 2 PM,
as the Social Justice Committee of GTMBC presents
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In this heartfelt production, Marie navigates the challenges of caring for her father's Alzheimer's. The story unfolds with poignant moments, highlighting the complexities of relationships and memory.
- Don't miss this unique portrayal of life's twists and turns—where moments become memories.
Join it for one show only!
All seats are $22.
The Berger Performing Arts Center,
1200 W. Speedway Blvd.,
Tucson, AZ 85745
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"The Evolution of African American History" | |
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FROM CHAINS TO PRISON
Presented by Matt Kearney
Saturday, February 10, 2024
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
FROM ILLITERATE TO EDUCATED
Presented by Jimmy Hart
Saturday, February 17, 2024
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
FROM SURVIVAL TO DISCIPLESHIP
Presented by Pastor Dr. Marvin L Hugley
Saturday, February 24, 2024
11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Don't miss the enlightening
Soul Food Luncheon on
February 24, 2024,
from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.
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For ticket Prices for the Luncheon: please see the flyer.
Admissions for the presentations are free.
All proceeds will benefit the Mt. Calvary Scholarship Fund.
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Tucson’s Gem and Mineral Show | |
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January 25 – Sunday, February 11 2024
The African Art Village is a MUST Visit during the Gem Show! With so many vendors you can spend hours shopping for fabric, baskets, masks, beads, gems and more!
This year the Village – they will be in white tents - is at 221 S. Avenida del Convento
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UNITED WAY
BUSINESS BREAKFAST
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19th Annual Business Leaders for Early Education Breakfast
Hosted by Women United
February 15th, 2024 | 7:00 – 9:00am / Tucson Convention Center
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Marana’s New Police Chief: Jeff Pridgett
Congratulations
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Jeff’ Pridgett’s journey within the Marana Police Department is remarkable, spanning over two decades of dedicated service. Commencing his career as an officer in 2003, Pridgett has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment and exemplified exceptional leadership qualities that have propelled him through the ranks.
His progression from a patrol officer to the esteemed position of Police Chief is a testament to Pridgett's dedication to the law enforcement profession. Over the years, he has undoubtedly faced numerous challenges, honing his skills and gaining invaluable experience. Such a trajectory reflects a deep-seated commitment to the safety and well-being of the community. Congratulations!
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February 2024 — Black History is American History! | |
Dexter King, Martin Luther King Jr.’s youngest son has died at 62 | |
Dexter Scott King, the youngest child of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, has passed away, as announced by his family and the King Center. King was 62 years old and passed following a battle with prostate cancer.
In a separate statement, Dexter’s oldest brother, Martin Luther King III, conveyed deep sorrow over the sudden loss. Rev. Al Sharpton, expressed heartbreak over Dexter's passing, but found solace in the belief that he is now reunited with his parents and sister. Dexter's mother, Coretta Scott King, passed away in 2006, while his sister, Yolanda Denise King, passed in 2007.
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NAT KING COLE BIOPIC
STARRING AND DIRECTED BY
COLMAN DOMINGO
Colman Domingo is set to make his directorial debut in an upcoming biopic centered around 1950s crooner Nat King Cole, as reported by Variety. Fresh off his successes in "Rustin" and "The Color Purple," Domingo will not only direct but also take on the lead role in the film.
- On Variety’s Award Circuit Podcast, Domingo revealed, "I've been quietly working on it for a few years. It's something I'm eager to bring to life with some fantastic collaborators.
Domingo previously co-wrote the play "Lights Out: Nat ‘King’ Cole" with Patricia McGregor, exploring the thoughts Cole might have had while preparing for his groundbreaking 1957 Christmas special episode of "The Nat King Cole Show."
- The show marked the first network series hosted by a Black person in the United States.
In addition to the Nat King Cole biopic, he is set to portray Joe Jackson in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic titled "Michael." Joining Jackson's nephew, Jafaar, who will portray his uncle, and Juliano Krue Valdi, who will play young Michael. Domingo is talented, to say the least!
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Museums Advocacy Days 2024, February 26–27, 2024! | |
YOU have the power to help create lasting change that can sustain museums and museum jobs into the future. Stakes will be high this coming election year, and we must continue to share our data and stories if we are to secure continued and future support for museums from Congress.
Please participate in our collective movement by using our
Advocate from Anywhere
Show the support!
https://www.aam-us.org/programs/advocacy/advocate-from-anywhere/
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Museums Advocacy Day mobilizes museum and history organization advocates nationwide to visit or sign petitions for members of Congress and/or their staff members and share the message that museums and history organizations are worthy of federal support and are essential to communities.
- Representatives in Congress will hear how federal funding supports our work, and we hope that by signing up for that, they are more likely to maintain and even increase federal funding for historical organizations.
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The Chevalier at the United Palace of Cultural Arts
The Classical Theatre of Harlem
The Chevalier: The Life and Music of Joseph Bologne
Sunday, January 21, 2024
Doors: 3:00pm, Show: 4:00pm
United Palace
4140 Broadway, New York, NY 10033
If you are heading to New York, check this out. Otherwise, enjoy the clips.
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Mother of Juneteenth Gets a Gift!
Ms. Opal Lee, known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, embodies resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of community. Her commitment to social justice and fighting for the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday symbolize her lifelong dedication to equality and civil rights.
The last chapter for Ms. Lee is about returning to her family's land, which was lost due to racial violence 80 years ago when her family was forced to leave their home. Now, she is receiving the land back as a gift from Habitat for Humanity, which owns the land. It's a testament to the power of reconciliation, healing, and generosity.
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Rising Concerns: Musk's Comments
Elon Musk’s recent endorsement of a tweet suggesting that Black students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) had lower IQ’s was trending this month! This went further, as he questioned the eligibility of Black students to become pilots! This incident is troubling and highlights concerns about rising racism and discrimination in the aviation industry.
This is the type of incident that can contribute to negatively impacting the lives of many.
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The United States Postal Service Honors her with a Forever stamp in
The Black Heritage Series
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Her groundbreaking accomplishment as the first African American woman to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court is a testament to her legal prowess and dedication to advancing civil rights. Motley's prestigious role as a federal judge further solidified her impact on the legal system. Throughout her career, she exhibited exceptional skill and determination, winning nine out of the ten cases she argued before the Supreme Court.
Motley's trailblazing achievements began in 1945 when she joined the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. Working closely with future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, she became a key figure in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination.
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Ms. Baker Motley's legacy continues to inspire and serve as a reminder of the tireless efforts made by individuals like her in the pursuit of justice and equality. The issuance of a Forever stamp with her image is a fitting tribute to her enduring impact on the legal landscape and the civil rights movement. | |
Giving Tuesday, February 13th is Coming! | Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to The African American Museum of Southern Arizona. Your engagement has enabled us to research, elevate, and promote an inclusive and expansive identity of Southern Arizona History! Your generosity will enable us to be sustainable and provide information about our community for years to come! | |
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
The Women's Plaza of Honor 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 that will be on the plaza that honors former
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg?
Women and Gender Studies (U of A's WGS), in collaboration with AAMSAZ, are working toward securing a bench to be placed on the Women’s Plaza of Honor in tribute to
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson!
We could use your help!
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- She is 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 a simple design.
- Please go to our website and 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. 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. | | | | |
