By Robin Smith
During Black History Month, so many will visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC to learn more about the contributions of men and women of color throughout history. In our state’s capital, Nashville, the incredible Tennessee State Museum has several permanent exhibits along with featured events for the month-long observance of African American history.
Yet, with the pressures on our paychecks, school commitments and other conflicts, the majority of Americans don’t get to take advantage of such resources.
Well, check out two opportunities that provide experiences to enrich your February celebrations that are sponsored by both of these out-of-town and out-of-state museums.
First, and don’t dawdle on this one, the Tennessee State Museum is hosting a series each Thursday in February entitled, The Legacy of Black Entrepreneurship in Tennessee. While attendees who participate in person will enjoy a boxed lunch, the lunch-and-learn format also includes virtual access.
The museum’s first speaker on this Thursday, Feb. 2 comes from a legendary family whose last name is tied directly with their renowned restaurants. Owner of Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and great niece of the founder, Thornton Prince, André Prince Jeffries kicks off the lecture series speaking of the family’s storied business that has been recognized by the Entrepreneur’s Hall of Fame of Nashville and the National Fried Chicken Festival, to name just a few honors.
Ms. Prince Jeffries’ talk will be livestreamed on the Museum’s website at TNMuseum.org/Videos from 1-2 p.m. ET/noon-1 pm CT on Thursday with future speakers to follow each week at the same times and link.
Take advantage of all the videos and virtual offerings at your Tennessee State Museum.
A second opportunity is offered by the prestigious National Museum of African American History and Culture. One of the 19 museums of Smithsonian Institute, the world’s largest education and research collection house in Washington, DC.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture provides an entire “Digital Journey of African American History” online that features a terrific mixture of culture, art, history and educational interaction for various ages and interests.
The benefit of the learning lab format is your ease of accessing at any time of your convenience to read of slavery’s abolition, learn about key figures–such as Harriet Tubman–through a visual art presentation, an entire section of interactive tiles featuring the works of African American female artists, in addition to the more prominent figures who lead throughout Black History.
While a tank of gas and a day’s travel to Nashville may be out of the question, and a trip to Washington, DC may be on a wish list for a future vacation, don’t miss the free offerings to enhance your knowledge and experiences while celebrating Black History Month during February. Go explore and learn, without the expense!