A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story

Welcome to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture

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As a public health precaution due to COVID-19 (coronavirus), the National Museum of African American History and Culture will temporarily close to the public starting Saturday, March 14. We are not announcing a re-opening date at this time and will provide updates on a regular and as needed basis.

All public events, programming and gatherings are canceled. Please visit our calendar of events for the latest updates. Our visitor passes page has updated information about individual and group passes.  We appreciate your understanding.

Museum News and Highlights

Teenage students of different races
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National Museum of African American History and Culture Releases “Talking About Race” Web Portal

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Talking About Race

Talking About Race
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Talking About Race

Talking about race, although hard, is necessary. We are here to provide tools and guidance to empower your journey and inspire conversation.
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Engage with the Museum Online

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NMAAHC Digital Resources Guide

Explore, learn and engage with the National Museum of African American History and Culture through our numerous digital resources.
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Rev. Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery, Congressman John Conyers, Rev. Dr. Ralph David Abernathy, Mrs. Rosa Parks and Mr. Cleveland Robinson, chatting, 1969.
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Revolutionary Messages Need Revolutionary Messengers

Civil rights icon Reverend Dr. Joseph Echols Lowery passed away on March 27, 2020, at the age of 98. His commitment to racial justice, social equality, and nonviolent protest transformed the fight against oppression around the world.
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Janelle Monáe on stage
Collection Story

Celebrating Black Music Month

The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black Music Month.
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Explore the Collection

Discover signature objects from the Museum's collection
Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division

Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division

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World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal

World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal

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World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder

World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder

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Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I

Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I

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Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform

Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform

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Combat helmet from World War I used by the 93rd Infantry Division
World War I Gold Star Mothers Pilgrimage Medal issued to Mrs. Margaret A. Neal
World War I enlisted soldier's tunic and cigarette holder
Binoculars used by Peter L. Robinson, Sr. during World War I
Photographic postcard of Cpl. Lawrence Leslie McVey in uniform
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The African American experience is the lens through which we understand what it is to be an American.

Lonnie G. Bunch III Founding Director, NMAAHC