The International African American Museum (IAAM) has released additional details for its opening week events, including a worship service on June 22nd and a dedication ceremony community gathering on June 24th.
“We're thrilled to welcome community members, visitors, and dignitaries from far and wide to the grand opening of the International African American Museum. We have waited a long time for this moment – we have many to thank and much to celebrate,” said Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO of IAAM. “It's exciting to invite the community to join us for this historic moment. We're preparing to open our doors with music, food, poetry, incredible visuals and words of wisdom – and to truly celebrate African American culture and its connection to and influence on the world.”
The festivities will begin with an opening worship service at 6 pm on Thursday, June 22nd, at Morris Brown AME Church. The multi-faith celebration of IAAM's opening will help build community, reflect on the work that led to the museum's opening, and to celebrate the long history of the African American people and their culture, which is woven into the fabric of the museum. Registration is free but required for this event.
Then on Saturday, June 24th, a dedication ceremony community watch event in Marion Square will bring visitors and members of the community together for a live simulcast of the ceremonies and presentations taking place at the museum and on-site at Marion Square. The watch celebration will include live performances from the African American Songbook featuring a 12-piece band, local and big-name musicians and artists, and refreshments from Black-owned food trucks. Explore Charleston will host a Mobile Visitor Center and hospitality tent to provide guests with visitor guides, recommend activities around the Charleston area, and local swag.
Boeing South Carolina's DreamLearners, an educational program that provides students with opportunities to learn about careers in STEM, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace, will also host a celebration event in the square. Led by the Boeing Black Employee Association, volunteers will help lead the interactive STEM-based DreamLearners programming, which will feature paper airplane building, flight competitions with free Boeing swag, and additional giveaway items. Registration for the public is not required. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.
