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Happy Asian Pacific American Month| Haitian Heritage Month | Mental Health Awareness Month | National Foster Care Month|
Clean Air Month| National Barbecue Month!
As we step into the vibrant month of May, we hope this newsletter finds you well—enjoying the season while keeping those allergies at bay! May is a time of celebration, reflection, and community.
We honor Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Haitian Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, Clean Air Month (oh please let the wind die down and let’s get a little rain in AZ to help with this!), and National Foster Care Month—each reminding us of the importance of culture, care, and connection. And of course, we can’t forget National Barbecue Month, bringing us together through food, family, and tradition for the next few months…Yummy!
May also marks a season of milestones—graduations, proms, and proud moments for our young people stepping into their next chapters. We celebrate their achievements and the bright futures ahead. Good Luck to all!
We also extend warm congratulations to the Greater Southern Arizona Association Chapter (GSAAC) of the Buffalo Soldiers on the 5th Anniversary of the Buffalo Soldier Memorial at the Quincie Douglas Center—a meaningful tribute that continues to honor history, service, and legacy in our community.
Here’s to a joyful, reflective, and celebratory May!
| Thank You Community Foundation of Southern Arizona! | |
We Are So Grateful! We are honored and so grateful as we are recipients of a CORE Grant! Thank you so much to the donors and the Community Foundation of Southern Arizona. This is a powerful investment in our mission to preserve and share African American history in Southern Arizona.
This support expands access to educational programming, cultural awareness, and opportunity for the communities we serve. It helps us to ensure that every voice we preserve continues to inspire future generations.
We plan to work on several projects over the summer including updating our strategic plan for the year. We will be adding storage to our archive, adding to our digital library, adding interns, working on research as we expand the information shared with us from you…..the community and more!
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📅 May 19 — W.E.B. DuBois:
Rebel With a Cause
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Don’t miss the premiere of
W.E.B. DuBois: Rebel With A Cause on PBS’ American Masters.
Directed by Peabody Award Winner Rita Coburn, this compelling film explores the life and legacy of W.E.B. DuBois—a groundbreaking scholar, activist, and one of the most influential voices in American history.
Featuring voices by Common, Courtney B. Vance, Jeffrey Wright, and Viola Davis, this film brings his remarkable story to life in a way that is both powerful and timely.
I was invited – along with others from around the country. Dare I say…. The WORLD to spend a Special Evening with Rita Coburn, the Director of this film via the Black Hollywood Educational Resource Center.
A Little about Dr. DuBois: DuBois was born in 1868 in Massachusetts, just years after emancipation, he grew up free and went on to become the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University. A fierce advocate for civil rights, he challenged America to confront its contradictions, famously asking, “Am I an American or am I a Negro? Can I be both?” At a time when such questions were dangerous, DuBois stood boldly—earning both criticism as a “rebel” and recognition as a visionary.
His work spanned nearly a century—from the aftermath of Reconstruction through two World Wars and into the rise of the Civil Rights Movement. He championed -The Crisis Magazine/NAACP -education, voting rights, women’s rights, and leadership within the African American community, believing deeply in the power of knowledge and collective progress.
| 🍲 Fellowship Wrap-Up: A Taste of African American History | |
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Director Nikieia and I were delighted to reconnect with Camp Naco Design Team member Mark Costa to reflect on our Fellowship experience. This partnership with Camp Naco created a meaningful community event centered on food, culture, and shared history.
Through this Fellowship, we were proud to engage communities across Tucson, Bisbee, and Southern Arizona by highlighting the rich culinary traditions of African Americans—and the history behind why these traditions endure today.
Featured experiences included Juneteenth fare by Kareem Hopkins( On The Fly Kitchen), Buffalo Soldier Stew based on an 1875 recipe prepared by Ken Alexander, and New Year’s dishes by Tisha Carey (Mama Carey’s).
We also extend our appreciation to Josh Wallace, who supported the project every step of the way, and to Willie Blake, the Historic Warren Ballpark for graciously hosting our food trucks and Jeremy Fricke - Executive Director of the Alliance and his team at Camp Naco for helping us bring this experience to life.
| | | | African American Retirees of Tucson (AART) | | | | |
There are moments when a place doesn’t just feel familiar—it feels like home!
That was the spirit on April 25, 2026, when the African American Retirees of Tucson visited the African American Museum of Southern Arizona.
I had the honor of guiding this remarkable and vibrant group through the museum, but it quickly became more than a tour—it became a shared experience of learning, remembering, and honoring.
We are deeply grateful to Shirley Hockett for organizing the visit and bringing together such an inspiring circle, including longtime friend and donor Marie Williams and Dunbar historian Barbara Lewis.
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As stories were presented and exchanged, I found myself pausing—not just to guide, but to listen and learn. The wisdom and firsthand knowledge shared by Barbara and Shirley about Tucson’s local icons added depth and meaning that no exhibit alone could capture. It was a powerful reminder that history lives within our community, carried by those who have experienced it.
We closed our time together in a moment of reflection and gratitude, with a heartfelt prayer and blessing led by Dr. Marvin L. Hugley Sr. of Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. This historic church holds a profound legacy of faith and community—one we look forward to honoring through an upcoming digital exhibition.
It was more than a visit—it was a homecoming, a celebration of legacy, and a reminder that our stories are strongest when shared!
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On May 2nd be at the Loft Theater- a Legacy of Family will be presented! Experience...
Tucson’s South Park area via the Hopkins Family as they share their story.
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By the way…as part of our
Freedom in Ink and our 250thAnniversary
of The Declaration of Independence
Dr. Jesse Hargrove, former Director of African American Student Services at the University of Arizona, announced the release of his new book,
Freedom’s Inheritance – During America 250: Celia Adams and the Long Struggle for Constitutional Belonging.
Freedom’s Inheritance is available for purchase online through Amazon.
A retired educator, historian, poet, and scholar, Dr. Hargrove brings more than 45 years of experience to this powerful work. His writing thoughtfully explores African American history and the ongoing pursuit of constitutional belonging, weaving intergenerational narratives rooted in family history and lived experience.
Now in retirement, Dr. Hargrove continues to contribute to the cultural and historical landscape through scholarship that informs, challenges, and inspires. His latest publication offers readers a compelling perspective on the enduring struggle for equity and recognition in American society.
| | | | A Special Invitation-Disney's Beauty and the Beast | | |
As part of our Juneteenth and 250th Anniversary Celebration programming, we are delighted to share a magical opportunity with you…our community!
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast returns to the stage in its 30th anniversary production, with members of the original creative team bringing this beloved story OR….. “a tale as old as time,” sure to inspire joy for audiences.
In partnership with Disney and Broadway in Tucson, AAMSAZ supporters have access to exclusive discounted tickets for evening performances (Tuesday through Sunday evenings; matinees are excluded).
Ticket Details: June 16 - June 21
- Price: $55 + Ticketmaster fees
- Run Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Recommended Age: 6 and up (all attendees must have a ticket)
- Reserve your seats:
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When selecting your performance, click the unlock icon and enter the code AAMSAZ19 to access discounted seating.
Join us in celebrating community, culture, and storytelling through this unforgettable theatrical experience—where history, imagination, and connection come together on stage.
| | 🎤 Her Story Changed This City | | |
The Black and Brown Health Fair
On April 25, we had the pleasure of participating in the Black & Brown Health Fair—a months-long collaborative effort bringing together more than 40 vendors dedicated to advancing health and wellness in our community. Held at the Donna R. Liggins Center, the day was filled with meaningful connections, valuable resources, and opportunities for learning and engagement.
We are proud to stand alongside community-serving organizations
committed to creating accessible health solutions for all.
The Center is named in honor of Donna R. Liggins, a visionary leader whose advocacy, service, and unwavering commitment to equity have shaped programs, opened doors, and strengthened opportunities for countless individuals and families across Southern Arizona. Her influence is deeply woven into the fabric of this community, and her legacy continues to guide and inspire this work.
We invite you to take a moment to experience her story—watch her Oral History interview and learn firsthand how her leadership continues to impact our community today.
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Indigenous Patriots of the American Revolution
A Call to Remember with Courage
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As the nation commemorates the American Revolution, we must look beyond the familiar and speak with courage about the full story of freedom.
Too often, the contributions of African American and Indigenous patriots have been overlooked—yet their sacrifices are woven deeply into the fabric of this country’s founding.
Reenactor Charles Price brings this truth to life through his portrayal of Prince Estabrook, one of the first men to shed blood at the Battle of Lexington. His work challenges us to rethink the narrative—one too often centered solely on figures like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington—and to recognize those who fought for liberty while navigating oppression and exclusion.
Today, commemorative events are helping to reclaim these voices, illuminating the resilience, suffering, and determination of those long left in the margins of history. These are stories of courage—of people who believed in freedom even when it was not fully granted to them.
To honor them is to tell the truth. To remember them is to deepen our understanding of what freedom has cost us—and what it continues to require.
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Family History is a needed CONVERSATION
and an important part of our History!
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Understanding “FBA”
(Foundational Black Americans)
We hope to bring to the community a Family History Day to start our community researching their family history, stories, birthdates and more!
The term “FBA,” or Foundational Black Americans, has emerged in recent years as part of an evolving conversation about identity within the Black/African American community.
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Popularized by media personality Tariq Nasheed, the term - FBA - refers specifically to Black /African Americans whose ancestry traces back to those who endured slavery in the United States, emphasizing lineage and historical experience.
Building on earlier discussions such as ADOS (American Descendants of Slavery), this framework calls for greater recognition of that distinct history, including conversations around reparations, political representation, and equity. At the same time, the term has sparked important dialogue, with some expressing concern about how identity definitions may impact unity within the broader and diverse Black community.
As these conversations continue, FBA represents a significant moment in how history, identity, and justice are being explored and understood today—encouraging deeper reflection on the many layers of the African American experience.
| | 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. | | | | |  | |
Nikieia Johnson
Director
African American Museum of Southern Arizona www.aamsaz.org
Office of Research and Partnerships |
The University of Arizona
Museum: U of A Student Union Room #244
Photo by Joe Jackson, Jr.
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Our Legacy Founder Investors (LFI), COX, TEP/UniSource Energy Services, Elliott Family Charity, Zuckerman Family Foundation, Tucson Foundation and our Legacy Builders
Paul and Alice Baker
Betsy Bruce
Thank you for your
unwavering support!
| Congratulations Betsy Bruce for being named the Outstanding Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Southern Arizona Chapter! More to come! | | |
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.
- 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?
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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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Hours of Operation
Wednesday - Saturday
10 AM to 4 PM
Friday
10 AM to 3 PM
Small groups of 5 or less can stop in anytime during our open hours.
Please check our schedule for Holiday and Summer Hours listed on our website.
Schedule a tour of 6 or more by signing up online. website sign-up page! Thank you for your support!
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General Admission to
the museum is free!
Help us keep it that way by
Making a Donation!
Thank you!
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All Copyrights are reserved to AAMSAZ
501 © 3 via UA Foundation
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