AAMSAZ Updates

November 2024

We are grateful not just during this season of thanks,

but throughout the entire year.

Thank you, monthly donors, supporters, collaborators, LFI’s, visitors, and evaluators! As we reflect on all that we’ve worked hard to complete, I know we would NOT have been able to do this without YOU! I am deeply moved by the generosity and support we've received. Your contributions have not only fueled our progress but also strengthened the foundation of our mission.

Thank you all for being an essential part of our journey. Your kindness and commitment has had a tremendous impact, and we are deeply grateful for your unwavering support.

We have been busy planning for MLK Day – usually a few wonderful events lead up to the big day - and also, Black History Month. Let us know what you're planning so we can put it on the calendar!

We held our 2nd Annual Membership Meeting on Sunday, October 20, 2024, and we were so excited to share our annual report with you. If you missed the meeting or want to know more, please go to our website to review the report. 

I hope you can take a day or two to rest, reflect, and raise a glass of your favorite drink to someone special in your life thanking them during this beautiful season. I will lift my arnold palmer to all of you as I celebrate being grateful for a full and happy year, thus far!

Happy Thanksgiving: Wishing you a day filled with gratitude, family, friends and good food!

Happy Veteran’s Day (Nov. 11th): Honoring all who served with courage and dedication.

Native American Heritage Month: Celebrate the culture, history, and contributions of Native American communities.

Diabetes Awareness Month: Raise awareness about diabetes prevention, management, and support.

Veterans Day- Thank You!

To those who have served our country and protected us from enemies, foreign and domestic, we at AAMSAZ extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, courage, and sacrifice has allowed us to live in freedom and security. We honor the bravery of our servicemen and women, past and present, who have answered the call to defend our nation. To those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we owe a debt that can never be repaid. Your selflessness will never be forgotten, and your legacy will forever inspire us.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and service to our country!

In Community,

Beverely Elliott, Executive Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

We are a movement, not just a museum!

We curated a new exhibition, and had the privilege and honor to work with Candice Hammons and Neftala Ellis regarding their ancestor

Sterlin(g) Arnwine.

It is his life story that we bring to the community in the exhibition

“ A Slave Story.”

We had no idea that it would receive Nationwide attention! We have been truly overwhelmed with the outpouring of appreciation and the proclamations from Tucson Mayor, Regina Romero, and congress and house representatives across the country.

Thank you to our readers and visitors!

We are proud to announce that Beverely and Bob Elliott, key leaders at the African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ), were honored by the the African American Legacy Funds (AALF) Annual Fundraiser.

The award, named in honor of Dr. Anna Jolivet, a renowned local educator, philanthropist, and civic leader, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and dedication to improving the lives of Black/African Americans in Southern Arizona. Dr. Jolivet founded the African American Legacy Fund in 2013 to address the educational and economic disparities in the region, and this award celebrates those who carry on her vision. In its first year community advocate Wanda Moore received the award!

Beverely and Bob were selected by the AALF Advisory Board, lead by Dr. Shannon Roberts, a member of the Southern Arizona Community Foundation, for their impactful work in advancing cultural, educational, and community initiatives, both through their leadership at AAMSAZ and their wider involvement in Tucson and Southern Arizona. This award is a testament to their tireless efforts to uplift the African American community, share the history, and promote meaningful change.

The award presentation took place during the AALF’s annual fundraiser at the Downtown Clifton Hotel, thank you Moniqua Lane (Owner), where attendees also celebrated the achievements of AALF's grant recipients the African American Leadership Institute (AALI).

Congratulations to Bob and Beverely for this well-deserved recognition of leadership, service, and community empowerment!

Jenny Li

On Saturday, October 12th, AAMSAZ partnered with Pima Community College’s Fine Arts Department (Dean Dr. Dana Roes) to present “Steeped in Fashion,” a delightful fashion show and tea event. The afternoon featured exquisite teas from 7 Cups Fine Chinese Tea House (thank you Andrew McNeil), paired with delicious treats Scones, Finger Sandwiches and lemon bars, prepared by Pima’s Culinary Arts (Pablo Toscano) Department.

Celebrating Fashion and Heritage

The event was inspired by the historic hats of the late Toni Ham, showcasing the vibrant heritage of hats within the African American culture. Students from Pima College’s Fine Arts area and their instructor Hope Simpara's Fashion Design class created stunning outfits to complement these remarkable hats. Professional models from Janet Ryan’s Models by Melange of Tucson modeled the outfits, while Pima Fashion expert Nancy Spaulding and Executive Director Beverely Elliott and volunteers made it a captivating afternoon that celebrated the artistry of fashion design.

Fundraising for Education

The proceeds from this fundraising event support the educational initiatives of the African American Museum of Southern Arizona and the Ketanji Bench Project and educational initiatives at Pima College's Fine Arts Department. Guests donned their own style… wearing elegant hats as they were dressed to impress. There is an exhibit at the African American Museum featuring Toni Ham's Designs.

Emcee and Musical Entertainment

The event was graciously hosted by Lupita Murrillo, (OMGoodness those shoes!) who recently retired from KVOA as an investigative reporter after 50 years total service to the industry. She added her experience and charm to the occasion. The afternoon was beautifully accompanied with music from Pima Arts graduate Jace Noldon, a talented music producer and owner of Filiocht Productions. There was also a Silent Auction featuring select millinery designs from Toni’s Designs. The auction was beautifully handled by Chelsea Lewis (Raytheon volunteer) along with a raffle of 2 beautiful tea sets by sponsors Goodwill! Photos are by Jenny Li for AAMSAZ!

Thank you…Charlotte and Charles Ham, for your donation of hats by Designs by Toni Ham! Thank you to the NAACP, League of Women Voters, Tucson Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, Beach Fleischman, Pam Burris, Nancy Spaulding, Janet Ryan, Hope Simpara, AAMSAZ Board Members: Daisy Jenkins, Tripp Twyman, Taunya Villcana, Styne Hill, and Bob and Beverely Elliott. Also, thank you, Sherry Cook, Sherri Garth, Joyce Green, Chelsea Lewis, and Raytheon volunteers, William Good, Esme Canelos, Karen T. and Kimberlee Avant, for your support. The Pima team was on point with the food. Pablo, Darryl, Deandra, Deanna at WestPress. OMGoodness the tea was so complimentary and tasty! You must check out 7 Tea Chinese Tea House(https://sevencups.com/)… DELICIOUS!

In Dr. Katherine Morrisey's History 102 class at the University of Arizona, I am working with several students who are advocating for the renaming of Mansfield Park to Doris Thompson Park. Evidence suggests that Mr. Mansfield actively enforced restrictive covenants even after the enactment of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1968 Fair Housing Act. This provides us and the city with compelling evidence and information that The Proposed name change to Doris Thompson Park should go without question. The city has the opportunity to take action based on these violations of civil rights. Let’s work together to move this process forward!

“Monte Mansfield, majority owner of the El Cortez Subdivision at the time, donated 20.8 acres of land to the city in the early 1960s to be turned into a park. Mansfield in turn wrote a CCR in the deeds for the area that he wanted to prevent anyone with more than a quarter of African heritage from living in the neighborhood, and went as far as to enter litigation with a property owner in the neighborhood who accidentally sold a home to a Black family.” (Taken from Tucson.com /Sierra Blaser)

We will be closed

November 24th - December 4th

During the holidays, settle down with a good cup of tea check out 7 Cups Tea House, coffee, wine, or your favorite drink and...

A Good Book / Check out our Local Authors

They also make great gifts for family, friends, and co-workers!

Daisy Jenkins (Board Member)

Discover "We See You!" – A Heartfelt Tribute to 30 Remarkable Men

So Proud of our AAMSAZ Board Member!

Available on Amazon

Jenelle Lewis

They Would Buy From You If Only They Could Find You: How to Become More Findable ….

Available on Amazon

Adiba Nelson

Oshun and Me 

Local Award-Winning Author 

Available on Amazon

Marquez Prize

Return of the Observer

Available on Amazon

Candice Hammons

Our new exhibition is based on Candice’s ancestor! Sterling Arnwine

https://thearnwinefamilyproject.org/toorder.html

Tani Sanchez

Meals and Memoirs II Recipes and Recollections of African Americans in Tucson, Arizona: Second Edition 

Available on Amazon

Bob Elliott

Tucson, A Basketball Town

Available on Amazon

Andre Iguodala

The Sixth Man

Available on Amazon

The African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

was proud to take part in

Pueblo High School’s Fall Encuentro: Warrior Block Party!

It was a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and education.

Hosted on the school’s campus, the block party featured music, food, and performances representing a variety of cultures. Rose (volunteer) and Jenny (Curator) were there sharing information about the museum’s exhibits and educational initiatives with students and families. As part of our mission to engage with and support the Tucson community, we offered materials on African American history in Southern Arizona and gave away museum-themed goodies to attendees.

We extend our gratitude to Pueblo High School and event organizers Victoria Bodanyi, Cristobal Barajas, and their dedicated team for the invitation and their continued support in fostering educational opportunities that unite and inspire. (Jenny Li)

Welcome Back! AALI's Second Annual Tour

AALI, a program of the African American Legacy Fund, aims to increase Black participation in civic, political, and workforce leadership roles.

The institute offers a 10-week curriculum focused on developing African American leaders and promoting inclusive economic growth in our communities.

During this visit, attendees explored exhibits in the museum highlighting the contributions of African Americans in Southern Arizona.

Seeing their enthusiasm for their culture and their aspirations for the future inspired us all. We look forward to continued collaboration with AALI, striving to assist with empowering new leaders! (Jenny Li)

Congratulations to the dedicated and talented Teniqua Broughton!

We are so proud of you.

It was announced that Ms. Broughton was one of two distinguished individuals to be named to the Board of Directors for Education Forward of Arizona. Teniqua is the CEO of The State of Black Arizona. She works with her staff as they gather actionable data, which empowers marginalized communities to take action. This data has motivated AAMSAZ to address housing discrimination, educational initiatives to help close the gap, the CROWN Act, and health care disparities among African Americans!

We have used this data in the museum to bring awareness and light to so many social justice issues!

Thank you Teniqua and Congratulations!

The African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ) facilitated another co-campus group tour, welcoming back students from the Black Student Union (BSU) of Agua Fria High School. This collaborative effort, supported by multiple University of Arizona departments—including Dr. Bryan Carter’s lab, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center (MLK Center), Dunbar Pavilion and Ms. Barbara Lewis, and various faculty members—provided a hands-on opportunity for students to interact with professionals and gain insight into life at a major university, offering an enriching educational experience.

We were thrilled to welcome these students back. It’s wonderful to see the students not only learning about their heritage but also envisioning their futures in higher education. Beverely (Executive Director), Rose (Volunteer), and Jenny (Curator) led the AAMSAZ tour for the students. We design educational curriculum for students that we hope inspire, and empower their learning with the hopes of them becoming Wildcats! We want them to leave knowing that their heritage is celebrated and their futures are bright. (Jenny Li)

We’re excited to announce our partnership with Arizona Theatre Company (ATC) for their upcoming performance of Scrooge!

Join us on Wednesday, November 6th at 7:30 PM

for a night of fantastic theater and community spirit. AAMSAZ will be there, and we’d love to see you too! Bring your friends, enjoy the show, and support local arts. ATC is proud to offer Community Night for each play in their 2024/2025 season, making theater accessible to all. Don’t miss out on this special evening!

Returning from its blockbuster first season for an encore, ATC’s holiday musical extravaganza Scrooge! Celebrates the season with the beloved story of Ebenezer Scrooge joined by a distinguished cast of more than 24 actors, live musicians, and an all-star creative team. With songs by the illustrious Oscar- and Grammy-winning and Tony-nominated composer Leslie Bricusse (Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory), this unique rendition exclusively brought to life by ATC is quickly becoming a cherished holiday tradition to share with your entire family.

Most people are not aware that many African American soldiers who served our country during WWII were denied access to the G.I Bill and Veteran Affair Loans.

Both of these programs were extremely impactful in supporting our soldiers and their communities as men returned home from war.

AAMSAZ is working on History 250, celebrating 250 years since the writing of the Declaration of Independence. These are the stories that need to be told and included showcasing the resilience of a people!

Stay Tuned for a list of Upcoming Events during

MLK Holiday Days and

Black History Month Activities!

Juneteenth

Is a not a moment

but a movement

(we love this movement)

Larry Starks, President of the Juneteenth Festival Committee, held his 3^rd annual Sponsor, Donor, Appreciation Reception.

What a beautiful event!

It was held at the YWCA /Laura Banks Center.

Thank you for the award of appreciation! We truly appreciate collaborating with the Juneteenth Festival Committee!

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!

The "Black Rosies" and the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion were trailblazing African American women who served during World War II. The 6888th, also known as the "Six Triple Eight," was the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas.

They were tasked with clearing a massive backlog of undelivered mail to boost soldiers’ morale. Facing racial and gender discrimination, they worked under harsh conditions in England and France, sorting millions of pieces of mail. Their incredible efficiency and perseverance were vital to the war effort, yet their contributions went unrecognized for decades. Their legacy stands as a testament to resilience and service.

We are proud to say that 2 of these women were from Arizona. More to come!

Movie

Although Tyler Perry is not typically associated with historical dramas, he is stepping into this genre with his upcoming film, The Six Triple Eight. This film shines a light on the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve overseas. The cast features Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Susan Sarandon, along with Dean Norris, Sam Waterston, and Oprah Winfrey.

Kerry Washington leads a mission of hope in the teaser for the WWII drama The Six Triple Eight (msn.com)

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.

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

Hidden in plain sight!

The incredible contributions of Black women in NASA's history have finally received the recognition they deserve. Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Christine Darden are being celebrated for their pivotal roles in advancing America's space exploration during the critical years of the space race.

A group of Black female scientists and mathematicians known as NASA's “Hidden Figures” were recently honored with Congressional Gold Medals, the highest award given to citizens by Congress, for their invaluable contributions to space exploration. Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Christine Darden were among those recognized for their pivotal roles in developing the U.S. space program during the space race.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson praised these women, stating they “made it possible for Earthlings to lift beyond the bounds of Earth, and for generations of trailblazers to follow.” He highlighted their courage and imagination, saying, “The pioneers that we honor today, these Hidden Figures — their courage and imagination brought us to the Moon. And their lessons, their legacy, will send us back to the Moon and then, imagine, just imagine, when we leave our footprints on the red sands of Mars.”

For those who have never seen the movie sharing the movement and untold story of these women. It was released last year.

The movie stars Octavia Spencer, Kevin Costner, Janelle Monae, Taraji P. Henson, Jim Parsons.

Join the legendary Blind Boys of Alabama as they celebrate over 70 years of gospel music with their latest album Echoes Of The South, exploring themes of perseverance and joy. Alongside them, Shemekia Copeland showcases her powerful blues voice with her new album Blame It On Eve. Together, these two acts promise a soulful night that speaks to the heart and spirit.

Museum Store Sunday

Museum Store Sunday (December 1, 2024) is an annual event that encourages the public to “Shop With Purpose” at museum stores during the holiday shopping season. Just FYI.. we do not have a museum store!

Participation is open to all independently operated museum stores and nonprofit retailers located at museums, zoos, aquariums, botanical gardens, historic sites, and other unique cultural institutions in the United States and internationally.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) offers support, and empowers America’s museums through grantmaking, research, and policy development.

IMLS is developing a new National Museum Survey (NMS) aimed at museums of all types to capture the scope and scale of museums’ presence and reach within the U.S. AAMSAZ is proud to have submitted information to be included in the IMLS system.

More Fashion News

I hope you read about our Steeped in Style Tea Fashion Show and the accomplishments of Ms. Anne Lowe of which there will be a Biopic about her and her beautiful fashion designs coming soon.

 So fashion is on the move!

Guess who is on the cover of VOGUE?

Fashion Meets Politics: Kamala Harris on the Cover of Vogue

IMAGE | VOGUE.COM

You’re likely aware of Anna Wintour's knack for blending politics with fashion through the pages of Vogue. The magazine's editor – she’s been there for a while - famously gave Hillary Clinton a Vogue makeover back in 1998.

Since then, Michelle Obama has graced the cover three times during her tenure as First Lady, and current First Lady Jill Biden has also been featured twice.

Now, VP Kamala Harris joins the ranks of Wintour's favorites, appearing on the special October 2024 digital cover of Vogue. The Vice President, who is running for President was photographed by Annie Leibovitz on October 7 at her VP home in Washington, DC.

Styled by Leslie Fremar, Harris showcases her own

Gabriela Hearst suit in this stunning cover shot.

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! 

Our Website:

AAMSAZ.org

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.

General Admission to the museum is free. 

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

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