AAMSAZ Updates

September 2024

As a museum we are not a library but we have a few New Exhibitions at the museum that weave together a beautiful collection of stories! These oral histories, legacy stories and exhibitions are complete with the voices of real Americans, each contributing to the collective story of African American History in southern Arizona.

All voices take on a conversation about their impact in our history and includes us as a part of the American narrative. Legacy stories, oral histories, and exhibition narratives are a living archive that we are working hard to provide and share some of the heartwarming memories and firsthand accounts of historic moments.

September - National Sickle Cell Awareness Month

September is recognized as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the importance of research and treatment for sickle cell disease. This inherited blood disorder, the most common in the United States, impacts approximately 100,000 individuals. It is particularly prevalent among those with ancestry from Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Central America, Saudi Arabia, India, and Mediterranean countries.

You can help:

1.    Read the President’s Proclamation: President Biden has designated September 2023 as National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. His proclamation encourages Americans to increase their understanding of the disease and the strides being made to alleviate its impact.

2.    Share Resources: Distribute patient fact sheets, coping tips, and treatment information to educate others about sickle cell disease.

3.    Our mission is to serve those with sickle cell disease by providing needed resources, raising awareness and promoting education to individuals, the public, healthcare providers and students about its causes, prevention, treatment and cure. The Sickle Cell Foundation of Arizona (SCFA) shall seek out, promote, provide and create opportunities for those afflicted with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to gain access to available resources.

In Community,

Beverely Elliott, Executive Director

African American Museum of Southern Arizona (AAMSAZ)

We are a movement, not just a museum!

Sadie Shaw, Leader of the Sugar Hill Community Land Trust and

AAMSAZ Advisory Board Member is on the move!

Sadie Shaw, Leader of the Sugar Hill Community Land Trust and we are proud to say an AAMSAZ Advisory Board Member, along with the Sugar Hill Community Land Trust and Sugar Hill Neighborhood Association, is advocating for the renaming of Mansfield Park, located on North Fourth Avenue just south of East Grant Road, to 

Doris J. Thompson Park.

The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department has opened a 45-day public comment period to gather feedback on this proposal. The Park would be renamed to honor Doris Thompson’s impactful contributions to the Sugar Hill Neighborhood and the Tucson community.

We encourage the public to participate by sharing their support or feedback. Learn more about Doris Thompson’s legacy on the Parks and Recreation website. The comment period runs from Wednesday, August 21, 2024, through Sunday, October 6, 2024. Submit your comments by mail beginning: Wednesday, Aug. 21, pursuant to the City of Tucson AD 1.02-19.

Thank you for your support!

Comments can be submitted by mail to: 

Tucson Parks and Recreation 

Attn: Public Comment – Mansfield Park Renaming 

900 S. Randolph Way 

Tucson, AZ 85716 

Need a sample letter to support the park? Email us at aamuseumofsouthernaz@gmail.com

For more information contact:

Sierra Boyer

Public Information Officer

Tucson Parks and Recreation

Sierra.Boyer@tucsonaz.gov

(520) 837-8032

If you are aware of African American students new to the U of A or those who have been attending, please let them know about the BCC (Black Community Council) and their upcoming Mentor and Mixers!

Join Us for the BCC's

16th Annual Mentoring and Mixing Event!

It's a Free!

You’re invited to

The University of Arizona’s 

BlackCommunity Council’s(BCC) 

signature event on

Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

At the Student Union North Ballroom

Activities:

• Speed Mentoring
• Food and Dancing

Students... We Looking forward to seeing you there!

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

by Daisy M. Jenkins  (Author), AAMSAZ Board Member!

Telling the stories of 30 amazing men was truly a labor of love. The book is now available on Amazon. Hope you get a copy and write a review. Thank you!

We See You!: Thirty Mold-Breaking Men Shine a Light on Goodness Paperback

This book features thirty amazing men, ranging in age from twenty-two to ninety-eight, with heartfelt and inspiring life stories to share. Their experiences may not be a cure-all for the troubles of this world, but they offer us precious liberation, even for a short while, from negativity. They remind us that when we look for goodness, we will find that it is still alive and well and that it's high time we shine a brighter light on it to reveal the truth that the more we see the goodness around us, the more we allow others to see it within us.

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!

AAMSAZ recently participated in the "Living the Juicy Life Pajama Party!" at YWCA, an empowering event hosted by Beautiful Little Things and I Am You 360. This vibrant evening celebrated women's wellness with fashion, music, delicious food, and engaging discussions, focusing on self-care and body positivity for women aged 40 and up. AAMSAZ volunteer Rose and curator Jenny joined the festivities, which featured expert talks, interactive games, and a raffle for a makeover. Proceeds supported I Am You 360's initiatives for sustainable housing and hygiene products, highlighting the power of community and wellness.

The evening not only highlighted the importance of wellness but also underscored the power of coming together to make a positive impact on the lives of others!  

We're excited to announce that the African American Museum of Southern Arizona will be participating in the

"Turn It Teal" event to support Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month. On September 4th, our museum will light up in teal as part of a global effort to raise awareness for PCOS, a condition that affects up to 20% of women and remains one of the most underserved areas of health.

The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association's campaign highlights PCOS, a serious disorder that can cause lifelong complications and often goes undiagnosed, especially among women of color. By lighting our museum in teal, we stand in solidarity with those affected and underscore our commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. We're proud to join over 240 landmarks globally in this effort to raise awareness and support better diagnosis and treatment for PCOS.

Kathy Foster, a proud Tucson High graduate, has shared exciting news! On August 19, 2024, Jerry Struts, Chairman and the Tucson High Badger Foundation, Inc. received a proclamation from Pima County declaring October 14–20, 2024, as Tucson High Magnet School Week. This special designation honors the 100th anniversary of the main building of Tucson High School.

Congratulations to all Tucsonans as we celebrate a century of educational excellence and community pride!

Dancing In the Streets AZ

Presents: The Nutcracker Ballet South Tucson, AZ

Dancing In the Streets AZ, a pioneering diverse, and inclusive ballet school, is thrilled to announce its annual production of                               

 The Nutcracker Ballet

Temple of Music and Art on 330 South Scott Avenue

Saturday, December 21, 2024 and Sunday, December 22, 2024 at 2:00 pm

The Ballet will be showcasing a talented and diverse cast from our community and Guest artists.

It’s A Magical Holiday Tradition!

Step into a winter wonderland as Dancing In the Streets AZ brings Tchaikovsky’s beloved masterpiece to life. This production features stunning choreography, dazzling costumes, and the timeless story of Clara and her magical journey with the Nutcracker Prince. Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion Dancing In the Streets AZ is committed to fostering a welcoming environment for dancers of all backgrounds and abilities. Our production of The Nutcracker highlights the unique talents of our diverse cast, reflecting the vibrant community of South Tucson.

You are Invited so ..Join us for an unforgettable performance that captures the magic of the season and celebrates the spirit of unity and inclusion. This is a perfect event for families and audiences of all ages.

Tickets: Online https://buy.tututix.com/ditsaz or call (520) 607-8750

State of Black Business

We Rise Program Accelerates Growth for Black-Owned Businesses

The We Rise Program, led by Local First Arizona, is empowering Black entrepreneurs to thrive in Arizona's business landscape. With a focus on financial literacy, business development, and personal growth, We Rise provides Black-owned businesses with the tools and mentorship needed for success. This 6-month intensive program has already served over 100 businesses and continues to foster a supportive community where entrepreneurs can overcome challenges and build lasting enterprises. Through initiatives like Demo Day and matching savings programs, We Rise is making a significant impact on the growth and sustainability of Black-owned businesses in the state.

Come and join the vital community conversation regarding the ongoing effects of racial discrimination in housing, focused on Tucson. We’ll dive into topics like racist covenants, segregation’s generational impact, and the unequal distribution of resources. Bring your personal experiences to this interactive discussion, which is informed by the Mapping Racist Covenants (MRC) project. Let’s explore the history and current realities of our neighborhoods together.

Saturday, September 7th

10:30 am – 12 pm

@ Valencia Library

and or

Thursday, September 12th

6:30 pm – 8 pm @

Woods Memorial Library

Register now: library.pima.gov/events

Join the NAACP Tucson Branch

Freedom Fund Luncheon on

October 5, 2024, at Casino del Sol!

For more information or to secure your spot, contact us at naacptucsonbranch@gmail.com.

Let’s come together to support our community! 

October 25-27, 2024, at the West Valley Event Complex, Glendale, Arizona. Single day tickets and three day passes are on-sale now at www.azjazzfest.com or call 602-244-8444.

October 25, 2024 - Erykah Badu, KEM, Stokely, Gerald Albright, Tony Toni Tone, Mike Phillips, Julian Vaughn, Rebecca Jade, J White

October 26, 2024 - The Isley Brothers, Joe, Sheila E., Raheem DeVaughn, Eric Roberson, Jeff Bradshaw, Justin Lee Schultz, J White

October 27, 2024 - Fantasia, The O’Jays, Musiq Soulchild, Michael Lington & Nathan Mitchell, Kevin Ross, J. Brown & LeVelle, Paul Taylor, Adam Hawley, Lin Rountree & Algebra Blessett, J White.

https://tickets.azjazzfest.com/event?e=gYg

Don't miss... September 28th from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM at Saguaro National Park West for a powerful event dedicated to helping the Black community reconnect with nature.

Experience healing and well-being on all levels in the heart of Tucson's beautiful desert landscape.

Location: 2700 N. Kinney Rd,

Tucson, AZ 85743

For more information, contact: HarrisFletcherEnterprises@gmail.com

September: A Month to Celebrate and Reflect

• National Breakfast Month: Start your day right with a hearty breakfast!
• Classical Music Month: Explore the timeless beauty of classical music. Check out Ulysses Kay!
• Hispanic American Heritage Month (Sept. 15th – Oct. 15th): Celebrate the rich culture and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
• Gospel Music Heritage Month: Honor the powerful legacy of gospel music.
• National Honey Month: Honey is a natural sweetener. It also has great benefits! It is a prebiotic, a slower energy releaser than refined sugars; it is an antioxidant, and a source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
• 1st Day of Autumn: Welcome the crisp air and changing leaves of the new season.

• September 2nd — Labor Day: Take time to honor our American workers.
• September 6th — National Read a Book Day – Encourage reading
• September 6th — National Food Bank Day: Support our local food bank!
• September 8th — Grandparents Day: Cherish their wisdom and love
• September 10th — Swap Ideas Day: So.. what they’d like to see in our newsletter?
• September 11th — Patriot Day: Also known as Remembrance Day.
• September 12 — National Chocolate Milkshake Day: Sip on a creamy, chocolatey delight! I'm allergice but please do enjoy!
• September 13th — Positive Thinking Day: Keep those positive thoughts going.
• September 20th — National POW/MIA Recognition Day: Honor the courage and sacrifice of those who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action.
• September 21st — World Gratitude Day: Express your gratitude to others.
• September 22nd — Fall Equinox: Embrace the balance as autumn officially begins,
• September 28th — National Good Neighbor Day: Please be a good neighbor.

In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson enacted the Voting Rights Act, dismantling the discriminatory barriers of the Jim Crow era and significantly enhancing voting access for communities of color. However, over the past decade, the Supreme Court has consistently eroded this pivotal civil rights agreement. In 2021, Congress introduced the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, a legislative effort named after the esteemed civil rights leader, to restore the Voting Rights Act to its full strength. Although the House passed the bill, it fell short of the 60 votes needed to overcome a Senate filibuster. Had it been enacted, protections for minority voters would be much more robust today.

A central component of the Voting Rights Act was the "preclearance" requirement, which mandated that jurisdictions with a history of discriminatory practices enforced by the federal government and approval before making any changes to their voting laws. In 2013, the Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder effectively nullified this provision, which led to a surge in racially discriminatory policies by various states. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act aimed to reinstate preclearance, preventing the implementation of discriminatory voting laws and other obstacles that hindered the participation of people of color in the democratic process. Additionally, it would have addressed unfair congressional district maps, such as those drawn by several jurisdictions after the 2020 census.

There is a national monument at the site of the 1908 race riot in Springfield, Illinois, thanks to President Biden. Most people are not aware but this is an important event that led to the founding of the NAACP.

John O’Connor/ AP

The above sculpture was in stalled March 2023. Title: Acts of Intolerance by Preston Jackson. The sculpture demonstrates the charred chimneys as the uplift the smoldering rubble.

President Biden held a ceremony, August 15, 2024, at the Oval Office, where he spoke about the riot’s impact. Of special note was the loss of African American lives and the destruction of numerous businesses and properties. “Over a hundred years ago this week, a mob in Springfield committed an act of violence that shook the conscience of our nation,” Biden said. He also emphasized, highlighting the necessity of addressing and resolving past injustices to protect and advance our democracy.

Even centuries after his presidency, George Washington continues to capture our imagination! Recently, archaeologists made an unbelievable discovery at Mount Vernon: a collection of preserved cherries dating back to Washington’s time. This incredible find includes 35 glass bottles filled with cherries, gooseberries, and currants, buried in the cellar of Washington’s historic home.

The discovery, initially reported with two bottles in April, now reveals that 29 of the 35 bottles were found intact. These fruits had been stored in five underground pits for nearly 250 years before being uncovered during ongoing renovations. This treasure offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and sheds new light on the food preservation techniques of the 18th century and enslaved people.



'Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine this spectacular archaeological discovery,' said Mount Vernon President Doug Bradburn. It's a powerful reminder that the voices of the past, including those of the enslaved individuals who likely preserved these cherries, still speak to us today.”

George Washington lived at his family's Virginia estate for most of his life, taking over its management in 1754. Over the years, he expanded and developed Mount Vernon, relying on the labor of hundreds of enslaved people to sustain the property. This discovery sheds new light on the history and daily life at Mount Vernon, offering evidence to the past and the skill of the enslaved people.

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! 

Gender and Women Studies and AAMSAZ will place a bench as seen above on the

Women's Plaza of Honor

While you're visiting the bench, take a look at the African American Women's Arch!

Make a Gift!

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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