WASHINGTON, DC (AP) — Museums and galleries popular with visitors and locals in the nation’s capital will close starting midweek if the partial shutdown of the federal government drags on. So will the National Zoo and a lively ice rink near the National Mall. The attractions have stayed open by using unspent funds, but they are about to run out of that money. Museums and galleries under the Smithsonian Institution umbrella started closing Jan. 2, the Smithsonian said on its website. That includes the zoo, as well as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History, and several galleries, including the National Portrait Gallery, with its paintings of former presidents. Smithsonian facilities were open on Jan. 1. The National Gallery of Art will close starting Jan. 3, a spokeswoman said. That includes the iconic West and East buildings as well as an ice rink in the National Gallery of … [Read more...] about National Museum of African American History and Culture in DC and Others Closed Due to Government Shutdown
The national museum of african american history
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History announces new CEO, Neil A. Barclay
Neil A. Barclay The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has named Neil A. Barclay its new chief executive officer. Bringing more than three decades of professional experience and leadership in the management and development of art and cultural institutions, Barclay will assume the leadership post of the Detroit-based global cultural institution effective Jan. 15. “The board of directors and staff are very excited to welcome a new CEO with Barclay’s diverse experience,” said The Wright Museum Board Chairman Eric Peterson. “With the changing dynamics and environmental challenges facing art and cultural institutions in the years ahead, the acumen of a proven leader like Barclay is certain to augment our efforts to engage a global community in exploring and celebrating the perseverance and achievements of African Americans.” “I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter with The Wright,” said Barclay. “The museum is … [Read more...] about Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History announces new CEO, Neil A. Barclay
Ohio lawmakers propose study of African-American history and issues
Jackie Borchardt Cincinnati Enquirer Published 4:55 PM EST Dec 11, 2018 COLUMBUS – The first African slaves arrived in Virginia 400 years ago, yet African-American history and current issues are not widely recognized or known in many parts of Ohio. A group of black state lawmakers wants to change that. They’re proposing a sweeping state study of African-American history in the United States and Ohio of African-Americans’ achievements and contributions to the state and country, and into problems black Ohioans face today. The two-year study would involve 30 members chosen by state lawmakers, who represent the Ohio History Connection, the National Museum of Afro-American History and Culture and public and private research institutions in Ohio. Supporters introduced a bill this week to start the study and appropriate $70,000 for the work. The proposal caps a two-year legislative session where black lawmakers have voiced concerns about how African-Americans are … [Read more...] about Ohio lawmakers propose study of African-American history and issues
Was Jerry Jones Visit to the Museum of African-American History and Culture Just a PR Stunt?
By Perry Green, AFRO Sports Editor Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones took his entire team to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Oct. 21, while they were in town for their matchup with the Washington Redskins. Jones’ visit to the Black history museum caused some to speculate whether or not it was all just a public relations stunt, as a means to make himself more endearing to the African-American community. “PR gesture. Nothing more. Jerry knows how the media will run with this,” tweeted an NFL fan. TMZ stopped him outside the national mall to ask him straight up if his presence there was just for good publicity; the 76-year-old billionaire said no and that it was the players on the team that volleyed for the visit.“Well, I don’t think that the case. This is a player effort and our players wanted to do this,” Jones told TMZ. “It’s their great idea and we sure wanted to do it and be a part of it.” … [Read more...] about Was Jerry Jones Visit to the Museum of African-American History and Culture Just a PR Stunt?
Backlash Over White Hip-Hop Curator At National Museum Of African American History
Editor’s Note: Timothy Anne Burnside is the head curator for a new hip-hop exhibit set to debut at the National Museum of African-American History and Culture. Burnside is a curatorial museum specialist focusing on contemporary history and culture, primarily music and performing arts who has been curating the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s hip-hop exhibit since the museum opened over 2 years ago, but the revelation that she is white made news on social media last week, stirring up a heated debate about about who should have access to black spaces. NPR’s Michel Martin and Rodney Carmichael take a look behind the scenes of the controversy. MICHEL MARTIN, HOST: Every now and again, we like to check in on controversies playing out on social media – not because they represent some careful scholarly debate, but rather because these controversies seemed to tap into wells of sentiment that exist but don’t find expression … [Read more...] about Backlash Over White Hip-Hop Curator At National Museum Of African American History