After years of planning and development, the International African American Museum is set to open its doors to the public on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
Now, the museum’s staff is excited to announce more good news.
In preparation for the grand opening, the International African American Museum (IAAM), located in Charleston, South Carolina, has also planned two other special events. First, it will hold a multi-faith worship service on June 22, followed by a dedication ceremony community gathering on June 24.
“We’re thrilled to welcome community members, visitors, and dignitaries from far and wide to the grand opening of the International African American Museum,” Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO, told TravelAwaits in a statement.
“We have waited a long time for this moment — we have many to thank and much to celebrate,” Dr. Matthews continued. “It’s exciting to invite the community to join us for this historic moment. We’re preparing to open our doors with music, food, poetry, incredible visuals, and words of wisdom — and to truly celebrate African American culture and its connection to, and influence on, the world.”
Here’s what you need to know about the museum and the opening events.
IAAM’s Focus
IAAM’s mission is “to honor the untold stories of the African American journey at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond,” the museum explains.
“IAAM explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, on the nation, and on the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora,” the museum explains. “Located in Charleston, at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey.”
That location is important to note because Gadsden’s Wharf, one of the many docks in Charleston Harbor, is where an estimated 45 percent of enslaved Africans entered this country, IAAM notes.
The museum’s numerous galleries use art, objects, artifacts, and multimedia interaction to explain and demonstrate “how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development throughout the nation and beyond, while offering an especially close look at the connection to the South Carolina Lowcountry,” IAAM explains.
The museum is also home to the African Ancestors Memorial Garden, where visitors can reflect on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf.
Opening Worship Service
IAAM will co-host a multi-faith worship service on Thursday, June 22, at Morris Brown AME Church in Charleston to mark the opening of the museum.
“Beginning at 6 p.m., the multi-faith celebration of IAAM’s opening will help build community, reflect on the work that led to the museum’s opening, and celebrate the long history of the African American people and their culture, which is woven into the fabric of the museum,” IAAM explains.
Scheduled speakers for the service include Dr. Matthews, Bishop Samuel Green, and the Reverend DeMett Jenkins, director of education and engagement for faith-based communities at IAAM.
There is no charge to attend the worship service, however, registration is required.
You can register to attend the service at IAAM Grand Opening Worship Service.
IAAM Grand Opening Community Celebration
The Grand Opening Community Celebration, a dedication ceremony, will be held on Saturday, June 24, at the museum. Scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., the event, which is presented by Boeing, will include live performances from the African American Songbook featuring a 12-piece band, musicians and artists, and refreshments from Black-owned food trucks.
Boeing South Carolina’s DreamLearners, an educational program that provides opportunities for students to learn about careers in STEM, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace, will also host a celebration event in the square.
The grand opening celebration is free and open to the public.
Know Before You Go
Beginning on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, IAAM will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m.–5:00 p.m. It will be closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
You can learn more about IAAM including how to visit the museum at International African American Museum FAQ.
While you’re thinking about the museum, be sure to also read our Black History content, including:
