National Museum of African American History and Culture

Some cities ask to be seen.

Washington asked me to listen.

Between museums, policy conversations, quiet walks, and unexpected moments of reflection, I discovered a city that revealed itself slowly.

On a recent trip to Washington, D.C., I had the opportunity to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and it was breathtaking. The sun shone overhead on Juneteenth as waves of families and visitors gathered outside. Art, history, and culture converged in the nation's capital, creating an atmosphere that was both celebratory and reflective.

Photo: National Museum of African American History and Culture

Time seemed to disappear inside the museum. Each floor led naturally to the next, and every gallery invited a little more reflection than the one before.

I spent hours moving through the museum's galleries, beginning with the history of slavery in America before exploring exhibits on Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, music, literature, sports, politics, and contemporary Black life. Each gallery offered a deeper understanding of the resilience, creativity, and contributions of African Americans throughout the nation's history.

I have always loved studying Black history, and visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture was both meaningful and deeply moving. I left with an even greater appreciation for the stories preserved within its walls.

Some places stay with you long after you've left. For me, Washington, D.C. was one of them. The stories, the artifacts, and the voices preserved within these walls will remain with me long after the visit ended.

To learn more about the museum, including current exhibitions, hours, and visitor information, please visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture website.