Visitors exploring the new Black history exhibition at City Hall.
Boston is celebrating Black History Month with the opening of a new gallery in City Hall, featuring significant contributions of Black historical figures. Curated by local historian Muqueedah Salaam, the exhibit aims to enrich community understanding of African American history and showcases the stories of figures like Claudette Colvin and Frederick Douglass. The exhibition will be open to the public until February 21, encouraging year-round appreciation of Black history.
In the heart of Boston, a charming new gallery is shining a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of underrepresented historical figures in Black American history. The cozy Neighborhood Gallery, nestled inside City Hall, is a perfect setting for this exhibition created by local lecturer and historian, Muqueedah Salaam. This engaging display is part of the city’s celebration of Black History Month and is aimed at enriching the community’s understanding of African American history.
Muqueedah Salaam has dedicated her career to educating individuals on the often-overlooked narratives of Black history, starting her efforts about a decade ago by sharing her knowledge in community centers and libraries across Boston. Now, with this gallery, she aims to correct historical omissions that frequently occur in school curriculums. It’s all about bringing to light those amazing stories that too often get left in the shadows.
The exhibition features a delightful array of significant Black figures whose stories deserve to be told. Among these is Claudette Colvin, an activist who bravely refused to give up her bus seat months before the iconic Rosa Parks. Her story serves as a reminder of the courage displayed in the fight for civil rights.
Also highlighted is the renowned Frederick Douglass, celebrated not only for his dedication to abolishing slavery but also for his advocacy for Black military service during the Civil War. The exhibition displays how he actively communicated with President Abraham Lincoln, showcasing his pivotal role in American history.
And there’s more! Visitors will find intriguing posters that shine a light on the 19th-century western cowboys, where it’s astonishing to learn that one in four cowboys was Black. This interesting tidbit opens up a whole new perspective on a classic part of American folklore.
Frederick Williams, the co-publisher of the exhibition and Salaam’s husband, emphasizes that teaching about African American history should extend beyond February. His belief encourages a year-round appreciation and recognition of the diverse contributions made by Black individuals throughout history. The couple actively rotates the displayed posters throughout the month to ensure that as many stories and figures are shared as possible, making sure to spotlight individuals who are often unknown but have made significant contributions.
For those interested in experiencing this eye-opening exhibition, it will be available to the public on the second floor of City Hall until February 21. In addition to Salaam’s gallery, visitors can also explore other exhibitions like “Who We Art” by the Haitian Artists Assembly of Massachusetts and “No Going Back: Voices of the African Diaspora” presented by Northeastern University’s African American Master Artist-in-Residence Program.
Boston’s celebration of Black History Month includes a special gathering scheduled for February 19 at noon in the Iannella Chamber on the fifth floor of City Hall. This event promises to bring the community together in a joyous acknowledgment of the contributions made by Black Americans throughout history.
As festivities continue, Boston encourages everyone to embrace the full tapestry of history, recognizing all the threads that have contributed to its rich heritage. The new gallery is a wonderful opportunity for Bostonians and visitors alike to admire and learn about the extraordinary figures that have helped shape the nation. Come explore, learn, and celebrate!
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