A museum in Virginia that celebrates Black history and culture has been recognized as a historic site.

The National Park Service has recently recognized the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia as a valuable addition to the list of historic sites. This recognition comes from the Congress-conceived African American Civil Rights Network, which defines historic sites as places that showcase the history of the civil rights movement and honor the sacrifices and activism of those involved. Along with seven other sites, the museum, located in Richmond, was added to this classification in the spring, as reported by VPM.

Executive Director of the Black History Museum, Shakiea Gullette Warren, expressed her gratitude for this prestigious designation. In an interview with VPM, she stated, "It means a great deal to the BHMVA as we strive to share the stories of African Americans here in Virginia. It also allows us to expand the understanding of the Civil Rights movement in our state." Warren further affirmed that the BHMVA met all the requirements set by the federal government and it was an obvious choice for the museum to join the network. The BHMVA shares a similar mission to "preserve, collect, and interpret African American history across the commonwealth."

Through this recognition, the BHMVA now has the opportunity to broaden the narrative of the Civil Rights movement and highlight Virginia's role in history. The museum, founded in 1981 by Carroll Anderson Sr., was initially located on Clay Street in Jackson Ward. However, in 2016, it moved to the historic Leigh Street neighborhood. Not only is the BHMVA building a beautifully crafted museum by Black artisans, but it also holds a significant place in history. It was once an armory for Black soldiers in Virginia and later served as the Monroe School for African American children and a community recreational space.

After undergoing renovations, the building now houses both permanent and rotating exhibits that span from emancipation to the civil rights movement. Additionally, the BHMVA has undertaken the ambitious project of digitizing its extensive collection, establishing itself as a center for scholarly research.

In September, the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia will unveil its featured exhibition, "A Prescription for Change: Black Voices Shaping Healthcare in Virginia." This exhibit celebrates the accomplishments of Black medical professionals and raises awareness about the healthcare disparities faced by the Black community. Accompanying programs, including guest lectures, health screenings, and youth programs, will be held to further engage and educate the community, as reported by RVA Hub.

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