By Deyane Moses,
Special to the AFRO
The Association of African American Museums (AAAM) has officially returned to Baltimore for its annual conference, taking place Aug. 13-16 at the Hilton Camden Yard. The event gathers museum professionals, historians and community leaders to explore the profound impact of African-American history and culture on the nation.
Dr. Vedet Coleman-Robinson is a visionary leader dedicated to preserving and elevating African American history and culture. As president and CEO of AAAM, she continues the organization’s legacy as a powerful force for change. Her expertise in museum management, coupled with her unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion, has resulted in significant growth and impact for AAAM.
“Maybe in the last six months or so, our registration has skyrocketed to over 700 attendees for the conference! This is a huge milestone for us. Our membership since I’ve been hired has gone up by over 270 percent. So we’re on a trajectory that we’ve never seen before,” said Dr. Coleman-Robinson.
This year’s conference theme, “Acknowledging Legacy, Fostering Progress,” marks a dual celebration. It commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act while placing a spotlight on Maryland’s rich African American heritage.
“We couldn’t imagine hosting this conference anywhere else but Maryland,” says Dr. Coleman-Robinson. “The state is steeped in history, from the legacy of Thurgood Marshall and Brown v. Board of Education, to the pivotal role of Morgan State University in civil rights activism.”
Attendees can experience dynamic programming, including engaging sessions, workshops, and keynote addresses. One highlight has already been made with a panel hosted by Afro Charities titled “Reimagining Historically Black Institutions in the 21st Century. The panel delved into how these institutions have adapted to continue their missions of equality, justice and equity.
The discussion featured directors from the Afro Charities, The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, The Banneker-Douglass Museum and the Eubie Blake National Jazz and Cultural Center.
Dr. Coleman-Robinson is excited about the distinguished speakers that have arrived in Baltimore for the conference.
“We’re honored to welcome Dr. Carla Hayden, as she concludes her tenure as the Librarian of Congress, as our opening plenary speaker. She will receive the Dr. John E. Fleming Award. Additionally, we will present the John and Marjorie Kinard award to Robert G. Stanton, the first and only African-American director of the National Park Service. And to top it off, we’ll have the incredible musical talents of Sweet Honey in the Rock and Raheem DeVaughn.”
Beyond the inspiring speakers and thought-provoking sessions, the conference will also feature an exhibit hall showcasing the latest museum technology and resources.
(Photograph by Megapixels Media Photography)
Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Dr. Coleman-Robinson shared, “This conference feels like a much-needed homecoming and family reunion for our members. We share common challenges and triumphs, and coming together creates a safe space to connect, recharge, and return to our work with renewed purpose.”
For more information on registration and the conference agenda, please visit the AAAM website at www.blackmuseums.org.
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