From The Chair

The League Meeting on April 20, 2024 covered various important topics. Members addressed challenges and opportunities in promoting diversity and inclusion, sharing personal experiences and stressing sustained efforts to overcome systemic barriers. We discussed contemporary challenges faced by Black Americans post-emancipation, emphasizing the need for Institutional Partners' support to accurately portray the enslaved perspective in historical interpretations. 

During the meeting, we discussed plans for 2024, which include: the Oral History project, audio script development and recordings for Mount Vernon Tours, and enhancing the enslaved ancestors' resting place. Preparation for the new George Washington exhibition to be opened at the end of 2025 just ahead of the 250th birthday anniversary of the Nation involves efforts to ensure enslaved representation using historical references, AI technology, and the likeness of descendants offered for the project. Strategies for membership growth and engagement included assisting members in determining their lineage and connection to Mount Vernon ancestors. Discussions also touched on family histories, genealogies, and personal ancestry journeys.

We are looking forward to expanding membership, and to ongoing collaboration with Mount Vernon on several important projects.  Until next month,

Kind regards,

Arthur