Black American writers have an intrinsic connection to documenting history. During Black History Month, the challenging work of these writers is celebrated.
One such influential Black figure was Frederick Douglass, known for his involvement in the civil rights movement in the 19th century and for writing three autobiographies detailing his life before and after slavery.
The legacy of Douglass is now being highlighted in the halls of the American Writers Museum. Each day, the museum is offering free “Forever Free” Frederick tours which share the impact of the great American writer. The 15-minute tour introduces visitors to Douglass’s story, while also introducing them to other Black American writers.
“With ‘Dark Testament', our current temporary exhibit, we get to showcase a whole other group of Black writers, many who knew Douglass,” said Matthew Masino, community engagement manager at the American Writers Museum.
“Dark Testament: A Century of Black Writers” is a special exhibit which honors the contributions of Black writers to American literature and history. Groundbreaking writers such as Douglass, Ida B. Wells, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin and more are featured front and center.
“It’s the largest exhibit we’ve ever featured here at the museum. The main attraction of the exhibit are these 14 portraits of Black writers,” said Masino.
The exhibit features stunning original artwork from local Black artists, as well as many other interactive elements including a piece on the Black press and the history of The Chicago Defender. The exhibit was inspired by the poetry collection titled “Dark Testament” by Pauli Murray and aims to bring the work of writers past and present to life.
“We like to say, we’re looking at the past, the present and the future of writing,” said Masino.
Many modern writers like Imani Perry, Elizabeth Nunez and Jabari Asim are also featured throughout the museum. The inclusion of contemporary writers aims to showcase the challenges and racial injustices still confronted by many today. For more information on the museum, click here.