America I AM: The African American Imprint Makes Its West Coast Debut at the California Science Center
America I AM: The African American Imprint, a touring exhibition presented by broadcaster Tavis Smiley that celebrates nearly 500 years of African American contributions to the U.S. will be at The California Science Center through April 2010.
By Amy Sommer | November 08, 2009
(L-R) A County Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas, Irene West (Dr. Cornel West�s Mom), Tavis Smiley and Avis Ridley-Thomas (wife of Mark) at the VIP Opening Reception for America I AM
In addition Angelenos will have the exclusive ability will to enjoy the only touring print of the Declaration of Independence that dates to July 4, 1776. This print of the Declaration - a "broadside" sheet printed in Philadelphia only hours after Thomas Jefferson was finished drafting the. This print is one of only 26 known to exist.
America I AM is a 13,000 square-foot presentation of pivotal moments in courage, conviction and creativity that celebrate the undeniable imprint of African Americans on our nation and around the world. Through more than 200 rare historic objects, documents, photos and multimedia, visitors can explore how African Americans have contributed to and s
Famed Jazz Musician Al Jareau at the reception
haped American culture across four core areas: economic, socio-political, cultural and spiritual. The exhibition relates important events and people from the beginnings of the nation up through the present-day inauguration of the first African American president.
�From the arrival of the first Africans in Jamestown, to the election of President Barack Obama, America I AM explores and celebrates the trials and triumphs that illustrate the unique journey of African Americans,� said broadcaster Tavis Smiley, who is presenting the exhibition. �This exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse contributions that African Americans have made to the American mosaic while underscoring that each of us as human beings can leave an imprint, and I�m especially proud to bring its important message to my
Tavis with Retired Colonel Ralph W. Smith, Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Western Region President
fellow Los Angeles residents.�
�The year 2008 marked a turning point in American History and signaled a new maturity in our political process. America I AM provides an opportunity for the nation to embark on a unique cultural and historical discussion of what it means to be an American in the 21st century,� said John Fleming, PhD., president of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, and executive producer of the exhibition.
For tickets and more information:
www.californiasciencecenter.org or
www.AmericaIAM.org. You can call for tickets � although no same-day phone call sales are available � 323-SCIENCE or 213-744-2019.
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