The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture is preparing a series of public events to mark its 10th anniversary. The celebrations run from Sept. 24 through Sept. 27 on the National Mall and at The Wharf, offering free discussions, a fundraising gala and a community‑focused day.
Origins and milestones
Donette Cooper, an early supporter who became involved shortly after former President George W. Bush signed the museum‑creation legislation in 2003, said the milestone feels “surprising” after a decade of growth. The museum opened its doors on Sept. 24, 2016, and the upcoming events will reflect a journey that began more than a century ago.
Associate Director of Advancement Derek Simms traced the museum’s roots to 1915, when African American Civil War veterans petitioned for a memorial on the Mall. The effort gained federal traction in the 1980s when Congressman John Lewis of Georgia introduced legislation that eventually became the museum, re‑introducing it for 15 consecutive years before it passed.
Celebration schedule
Friday, Sept. 25 – “Understanding America: 10 Years of Excellence.” Founding director and Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III will join journalist Laura Coates for a moderated discussion. Registration is free, but tickets are required and seating is limited.
Saturday, Sept. 26 – “The Purple Ball: Echoes of the Pearl.” Hosted by comedian Bill Bellamy at The Wharf, the fundraiser will feature performances by Grammy‑winning artist Jermaine Dupri & Friends and DJ D‑Nice. Attendees must register; proceeds will support the museum’s exhibitions, programs and educational initiatives.
Sunday, Sept. 27 – “Violet Vibes: A Community Celebration.” The closing event offers a day‑long program at The Wharf celebrating the museum’s first decade. Admission is free, though space is limited and registration details will be released in September.
Visitor numbers and community support
Simms noted the museum is on track to welcome its 14 millionth visitor soon and now counts “tens of thousands” of financial supporters. More than 74,000 households contribute at a level as low as $25 a year, making the museum the largest member base of any Smithsonian institution.
“It wouldn’t be possible without the community we’ve built,” Simms said, explaining why the anniversary series is called “The Reunion.” Cooper added that the museum has “touched so many people, opened a world to many who were not aware of the African American contributions, the history.”
Special menu at Sweet Home Café
From Sept. 25‑27, the museum’s Sweet Home Café will feature a special anniversary menu curated by Executive Chef Ramin Coles. A year‑long 10th‑anniversary menu with seasonal offerings will debut on Sept. 28.
These events provide an opportunity for Washington residents and visitors to engage with the nation’s most visited museum of African American history, reflecting on a legacy that began with veterans’ petitions and continues through today’s vibrant community programming.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
