The AHA has endorsed a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) recognizing and celebrating the significance of Black history museums and cultural institutions. The resolution recognizes Black history museums and cultural institutions are essential to fulfilling the United States’ founding promises and telling the full, accurate history of our nation; calls on relevant federal agencies to ensure strong support for Black museums and cultural institutions in their funding and partnership programs; and calls upon the people of the United States to engage with Black history museums and cultural institutions and to confront efforts to erase or distort Black history. The resolution also emphasizes the importance and centrality of Black history within American history, and calls for partnership with Black history museums and cultural institutions in the American Semiquincentennial celebrations.
In endorsing the resolution, AHA executive director Sarah Weicksel said, “The Black history museums and cultural institutions supported by this resolution are essential to telling the full story of our nation’s past. As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, we must acknowledge that Black historical experiences belong in all institutions where United States history is presented and interpreted—from our museums to our parks to our schools.”
Congresswoman Pressley’s office has issued a press release on the resolution.