Black Voices of Dignity

First Congregational Church in Downtown Kalamazoo will host a free history exhibit entitled “Black Voices
of Dignity” from June 18 to June 21 . Open from 4:00 to 9:00 pm on Thursday and Friday, and from noon to
6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday, the goal of this exhibit is to invite a broad range of Kalamazoo residents
to engage with snapshots of Black American History across the Juneteenth weekend. The exhibit location is
adjacent to Bronson Park, where Rootead’s Juneteenth Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 20.

The exhibit features photographs, art, and cultural artifacts that celebrate the accomplishments and
cultural heritage of Black Americans. All the artifacts have been collected and curated by Ms. Edda
Williams, who is a member of Webster United Church of Christ in Dexter, MI. She has previously displayed
the exhibit at the University of Michigan and at public libraries in the Ann Arbor area.
Williams shares, “I found that as an African American, who has faced numerous acts of discrimination
myself, it was important to speak out, and at the very least bring forth some of the social issues. This exhibit
is an opportunity for me to not only pay tribute and honor a maligned group of people, but it is also
important to me to show the many varied achievements and accomplishments of African Americans with an
artistic walk-through depicting both past and current events. The displays include art, photos, African
carvings, historic memorabilia and 3D recreations.
0ur country has been enriched by the contributions of African Americans. Our history should not be erased,
forgotten, or pushed aside. This exhibit is a way of bringing to the forefront some of the current struggles
and numerous social injustices that black Americans face daily. It validates the African American experience
by evoking emotions.
My hope is that through the experience of viewing and reflecting on this exhibit you will not only be more
open but also become a catalyst for change. With great pride, we recognize, honor and celebrate the many
faceted and distinguished: ‘Black Voices of Dignity’.”
The Black Voices of Dignity exhibit is co-hosted by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and sponsored
by the Society for History and Racial Equity.