What’s Next at IAAM: “Soul(Food) of Freedom” through Jazz, Justice, and Genealogy in April

April 4, 2026

10:32 AM

Following a vibrant start to the spring season, the International African American Museum (IAAM) announces its April programming lineup. Guided by this year’s theme, “Soul(Food) of Freedom,” this month will focus on the cultural and spiritual nourishment that has sustained the African American journey, featuring everything from rhythmic celebrations in our African Ancestry Memorial Garden to critical dialogues on faith and forgiveness.

As we enter the heart of spring, IAAM remains dedicated to being a space for both reflection and celebration. Ranging from genealogy workshops to jazz performances, our April programs are designed to feed both the soul and the community, while also honoring the complex histories that define our collective pursuit of freedom.

APRIL 2026 PROGRAMS & EVENTS:

Special Exhibition: “middle of somewhere: the art and the legacy of Black Southern makers”
- Ongoing Special Exhibition on display until February 2027 *Included with museum admission ticket!
- This exhibition continues throughout the spring, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and cultural contributions of Black artists from and inspired by the American South. Visitors can explore a vibrant array of pottery, textiles, and other artistic traditions that showcase the ingenuity and innovation of communities whose stories have too often been overlooked.
Young Griots (Youth & Family Program)
- Every Tuesday | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM *Included with museum admission ticket!
- The Young Griots program empowers youth to explore the museum and express their findings through art. Hosted in our Studio Time room, current sessions feature the creation of Abayomi Dolls—a meaningful craft originating from the Yoruba people of West Africa.
Getting Started with Genealogy (Daily Sessions)
- Every Tuesday to Friday | 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM *Included with museum admission ticket!
- Unlock your history at the Center for Family History (CFH), where our team teaches the fundamental methods for tracing ancestral lines and documenting generational heritage.
IAAM History Free Document Scanning Day | Kingstree Recreation Center
When: Saturday, April 11 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Off-site: Kingstree Recreation Center (In partnership with Epps-McGill Farmhouse)
Details: This community event invites the public to digitize up to 10 family photos or documents. Preserve your family’s legacy for future generations with the help of IAAM’s Center for Family History staff. This is a free, drop-in event!

Decolonizing Faith: Reviving the Black Church for Liberation and Community
- When: Thursday, April 16 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Where: International African American Museum
- Details: IAAM welcomes renowned theologian and author Thabiti Anyabwile for an immersive discussion on the transformative potential of the Black Church. Drawing from his work, “Reviving the Black Church,” Anyabwile will explore how faith communities can rediscover their roles as centers for spiritual depth and collective empowerment, offering attendees actionable steps to drive social justice and community impact today.
The Politics of Forgiveness: Justice, Memory, and Repair
- When: Saturday, April 18 | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Where: Off-site: Charity Missionary Baptist Church
- Details: This half-day symposium will explore the ways forgiveness has been demanded of marginalized communities without acknowledgment of harm, accountability, or meaningful repair. Through keynote remarks, interfaith panel discussions, and facilitated dialogue, participants will reflect on the complex intersection of mercy, justice, and healing.
Jazz in the Garden
- When: Saturday, April 18 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Where: International African American Museum
- Details: Jazz in the Garden is a free, family-friendly program that invites guests of all ages to enjoy the vibrant world of jazz in an engaging and interactive setting. The program will feature live music, hands-on workshops, and cultural experiences designed to connect the community with the rich traditions of jazz. This year, the program will focus on the Jenkins Orphanage Band and its legacy in Charleston: Supporting children through the arts and teaching leadership skills to African American orphaned children. Therefore, this program will host live painting with musicians as models, a Jeopardy-style game, and concluding with an exciting jazz show performance. This program is free to the public, though advance registration is highly recommended. This program is made possible through the generous support of the Cravens Foundation.
The Trail of Tears – History, Memory, and Family | CFH Podcast
- Saturday, April 18 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- As part of the “Untold African American Stories: CFH Podcast,” this live-recorded session will explore the intertwined histories of African American and Indigenous communities during the Trail of Tears.
*SPONSORED EVENT* The 2026 Black Food Truck Festival | FRIDAY NIGHT OPENING PARTY Rhythms & Booze Opening Soiree
- Friday, April 24 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- The Black Food Truck Festival (BFTF) exclusive opening soiree will be hosted at the International African American Museum! This semi-formal event sets the tone for a weekend that will honor Black history and culture while celebrating the best in food, music, and community.
IAAM Employment Open House
- When: Monday, April 27 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Where: International African American Museum
- Details: Are you looking for a career with purpose? IAAM is growing our team and looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to help us continue our mission in telling the untold stories of the African American and African Diasporic journeys.
- Apply: We currently have several exciting opportunities available! Prior to attending our IAAM Employment Open House, please submit your application to any of our open positions HERE or at iaamuseum.org/careers. Questions regarding a specific position? Please reach out to careers@iaamuseum.org.
Revolutionary Soundscapes: Music, Freedom, & the African Diasporic Experience
- When: Wednesday, April 29 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Where: International African American Museum
- Details: As part of the 250th anniversary of the United States and SC250 commemoration, this immersive evening will explore the profound intersections of music, freedom, and the African Diasporic experience. This program examines how sound and song have historically served as vital instruments of resistance, liberation, and cultural preservation across generations. Through a guided experience that will transform into a blend of compelling historical narratives and live performances, attendees will delve into the sonic traditions that have shaped revolutionary movements and sustained community identity throughout the Diaspora. Presented in partnership with the Colour of Music Festival and sponsored by the Duke Energy Foundation.

For more information and a full list of upcoming programs, please visit iaamuseum.org/events.