Two years ago, we took a road trip to Washington DC with our family. That is adventurous enough but we had a distinct purpose. Finally, the National Museum of African American History and Culture was allowing entry without timed passes and we decided we would take our chances with the promised long lines. We got up early and headed to the museum and to our surprise we weren’t met with lines but instead with a five-story architectural wonder (designed by sir David Adjaye) housing centuries of history. We started our journey in the history galleries- three levels below the concourse or in 1400 to about the second level where we tried exploring our family histories. It was beautiful. It was soul filling and soul full. We had to return on the second day to consume the upper floors. And still with all that we saw, there was so much missed.
African-American History is expansive. It is engulfing and it encompasses centuries of trial and triumph. It is refreshing and resourceful. It is heroic and hard. It can not be contained and it is unfolding. We honor Dr. Carter G. Woodson and his thoughtful and righteous effort to celebrate the culture and history of a people that is often overlooked and or under appreciated. As a business we join in the amplification of Black History during February. But we also center the Story of Black people every day. Everyday Black stories. Black stories are our stories. Black History is American History.
Have you had the chance to experience the National Museum? When the world opens again…take some time to immerse yourself in the culture.
Happy Black History Month!
Adeola and Kendra