In celebration of its third anniversary and month of Jubilee, the International African American Museum (IAAM) announces an exclusive evening dedicated to culture, connection, and community through this year’s “Speakeasy Noire.” Taking place on Thursday, June 18, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Charleston Union Station, this event invites visionaries, changemakers, and supporters to experience an intimate gathering inspired by the richness of the jazz era.
Speakeasy Noire offers a curated experience designed to celebrate African Diasporic culture and craft. The evening festivities will include:
- Salon Marronage: An insightful conversation featuring IAAM President and CEO Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, alongside special guests acclaimed Southern chef, Chef Carlos Brown – whose culinary work has been recognized from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture to tables serving President Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey – and alongside Babette Jones, entrepreneur and founder of one of South Carolina’s first Black woman-owned ready-to-drink spirits brands: Six Nineteen of 1865 Spirits.
- Live Performances: A showcase of live musical performances and entertainment throughout the night.
- Curated Dining: A food and cocktail experience celebrating African Diasporic culture and craft.
- IAAM Season of Jubilee Fundraising Drive: Launching Monday, June 1, the month-long fundraising initiative invites supporters near and far to celebrate IAAM’s anniversary and Jubilee Season through philanthropic giving that continues to advance the mission.
Beyond the celebration, Speakeasy Noire serves a vital philanthropic purpose. Proceeds from the evening will directly support the museum’s exhibitions, public programming, and the Center of Family History (CFH). A primary focus of the event is the stewardship and research of IAAM’s significant 1850 Daguerreotype Collection, helping to uncover and preserve the lived experiences of individuals whose stories might otherwise remain untold.
“Speakeasy Noire is where the soul of freedom meets celebration,” said Ashlei Elise, IAAM’s Chief Marketing Officer. “[It’s] inspired by the timeless energy of the jazz lounge and the richness of Black culture from past to present. This evening event is designed to feel classic, vibey, and deeply connected to our community. As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary and honor Juneteenth, IAAM’s Speakeasy Noire reminds us that everyone has a seat at the table and a role in preserving, elevating, and investing into the stories that IAAM exists to protect and share.”
Ticket and Sponsorship Information
Capacity for this event is strictly limited, and prices will increase. Members of the community are encouraged to secure their seats through the following ticketed experiences:
- Salon Circle (General Admission): starting at $150; including standard entry and full access to all event programming.
- Inner Circle (VIP): starting at $250; including preferred seating, priority early entry, and access to the VIP lounge.
- Half Table (VIP Host): $2500; including five (5) event tickets, reserved premier seating, priority early entry, VIP lounge access, and a curated commemorative gift.
- Full Table (VIP Host): $5000; including ten (10) event tickets, dedicated premier table, priority early entry, VIP lounge access, Meet & Greet opportunities, a curated commemorative gift, and more.
For those unable to attend in person, the museum welcomes individual and corporate commitments to support the research and stewardship of IAAM’s 1850 Daguerreotype Collection.
To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://iaamuseum.org/event/