America We ARE
“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” Marcus Garvey’s quote proved to be so true as we viewed the magnificent “America I AM” exhibit on a recent VOX field trip. Actual artifacts, documents, and other interesting pieces of African Americans culture were displayed for people of all ages and races to witness.
Each glass case represented a window to the struggle, prosperity and dedication of African Americans. Seeing the shackles and whips that were forced upon slaves, Martin Luther King’s actual prison bench and the wardrobes of today’s musical legends all allowed me to see exactly how far my people have come.
Thomas Day, Hiram Revels, Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, Shirley Chisholm, Barack Obama…the list of inspirational African Americans goes on and on. Spiritually, economically, politically and socially, the Black culture has transformed this country. Although some Blacks continue to be stereotyped, judged and disrespected, this exhibit proves that America would not be the great nation that it is today without the impact of potent African Americans.
— By Teyonna Ridgeway | VOX Staff
“America I AM” is showing at the Atlanta Civic Center until Sept. 6.
Look for more thoughtful reflections on “America I AM” in the September issue of VOX!
The whole exhibit made me think: would I be as brave if I were to fight for our rights? What people go through is incredible, I think they knew that if they fought and believed hard enough, what they wanted shall come to pass. And it did….somewhat…
omg!!!! this was sooo well written, and soooo true. the slavery part was the part that scared me the most… the way they presented it was really realistic, and a little chilling
Today was really empowering, and im very apprecative that i got to experience this major event. Two artifacts that really stood out to me were the Fredrick Douglass Frock Coat, and the KKK suite. These two things mattered alot to me while i was on the tour, because i felt like both had a great deal of African Americans life. i liked the music too.
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I wish i would have attended this event, alot of people don’t know about the people that fought in the past to make a better future for us. I always stress to people that there are stages in life that have to be lived in order for justice to occur….so learn about the past before you look to the future and always be proud to be an American…….I AM!!!!