Black History Month is not only a time to remember the sacrifices of black people all over the world, but also a way for people to reflect and learn. One traveling museum is helping people do all three by showing eye-opening exhibits and interesting artifacts that have their own story.
"I want to introduce the contributions African-Americans have made to this society, and how they have helped alter our culture into what it is today," Angela Jennings, owner and curator of the Sankofa; African-American Museum on Wheels, said.
Established in 1995, Jennings started her museum as a way to teach her family and young people about the experiences and heritage of black people throughout history. She encourages students, teenagers and adults alike to take advantage of the museum and learn as much as possible from the exhibits.
"I've been collecting all these things my entire life," Jennings said. "I've gotten most of my pieces from auctions and other outlets and have traveled the world showing people my personal museum."
According to Jennings, it's a great way to stay connected with the culture and help audiences take an adventure through black history.
The museum featured different pieces that stretched all the way from the 1860s to the present. There are articles from the Civil Rights Movement to Barack Obama becoming the President of the United States.
Some of the older pieces included authentic slave chains, whips, African spears and shields. According to Jennings, many of these items tell a story that a picture or text cannot, and she hopes students leave the museum with newfound knowledge.
"I think this is a powerful exhibit about African-American history," Ekpe Abioto, a musical philanthropist of African music, said. "If you don't know the about the African-American history, you do not know about American history."
According to Jennings, she hopes to travel the world and educate people about African-American culture and society.
