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Recently, the young members of IPRIDE had the opportunity to view the "America I AM" exhibit at Charlotte's Gantt Center. This was a very eye opening and educational experience for the children. Through the masterful imagery of the videos, artifacts, and pictures used, the children were able to view the journey of their forefathers from Africa to present day. They saw how their ancestors who once lived as Kings and Queens in their own land, were stolen and treated like animals in a strange land. They also saw how these same people persevered over unthinkable circumstances to them becoming the builders of this great Nation. |
Background: America I AM
America I AM: The African American Imprint is a four-year touring museum exhibition that celebrates nearly 500 years of African American contributions to this country.
America I AM provides an opportunity for people from all walks of life to explore this uniquely American story. With the nation’s first African American president, America I AM endeavors to bring together Americans of all backgrounds to achieve a greater understanding of their shared culture and history.
Scholar W.E.B. Du Bois once wrote, “Would America have been America without her Negro people?”
To examine the answer to that question, AMERICA I AM: The African American Imprint
is mounted as the broadest museum exhibition of its kind. An assembly of poignant artifacts representing nearly 500 years of American history, the exhibition will convey and celebrate the undeniable imprint African Americans have had on the country and the world.
is mounted as the broadest museum exhibition of its kind. An assembly of poignant artifacts representing nearly 500 years of American history, the exhibition will convey and celebrate the undeniable imprint African Americans have had on the country and the world.
The exhibition examines four themes in particular: economic, socio-political, cultural, and spiritual impact on America. These themes serve as recurring touch points throughout the galleries, as visitors discover how our experience as Americans has been shaped by African Americans throughout history.
Walking through the Exhibition
The 15,000 square-foot exhibition is divided into twelve galleries, leading visitors through time on a journey from struggle to triumph.
The 15,000 square-foot exhibition is divided into twelve galleries, leading visitors through time on a journey from struggle to triumph.
Featuring more than 200 artifacts culled from every period of U.S. history, the exhibition includes objects, texts, religion, music, narration, and media. An interactive component of the exhibition allows visitors to leave their own video “imprints,” and this collection will grow throughout the life of the exhibition with the potential to become the largest recorded oral history project in U.S. history.
America I AM OrganizersThe exhibition is developed in partnership with Tavis Smiley, and organized by Arts and Exhibitions International (AEI) and Cincinnati Museum Center. America I AM is made possible by Walmart Stores, Inc., which serves as its presenting sponsor. Northern Trust serves as the exhibition’s educational partner. Microsoft is the technology partner for the tour.
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