PRESS RELEASE
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The rich culture and history of Black Americans is woven throughout Tennessee, from its big cities to its small towns. From east to middle to west, the state boasts dozens of attractions and festivals that showcase the impact African American residents have had on music, food, art and events that changed the world. From inspiring legacy stories of the past to how Black residents are shaping the future, discover 10 ways to celebrate Black History Month this February in Tennessee.
1. Explore The National Civil Rights Museum
The world-renowned National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis is built around the former Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in April 1968. It is a true deep-dive, with 260 artifacts, more than 40 films, oral histories, interactive media and external listening posts that guide visitors through five centuries of history — from the beginning of the resistance during slavery, through the Civil War and Reconstruction, the rise of Jim Crow, and the seminal events of the late 20th century that inspired people around the world to stand up for equality.
2. Get Schooled In Black Music
Nashville’s National Museum of African American Music is the only museum dedicated to preserving the and celebrating the music genres that were created, inspired or influenced by African Americans. With interactive exhibits, including a sound booth where you can test your own musical talents, the museum brings to life the music legends of past and present. Want to get even more into the swing of things? The Nashville Jazz Workshop offers a wide array of classes for all levels of experience, from experts to novices. You don’t even have to be a musician. Fascinating courses like the “Nina Simone Listening Class” or “The Music of New Orleans” are designed to give students of all ages a deeper appreciation of jazz — America’s greatest gift to the world.
3. Hear The Soul of Stax
These walls don’t talk — they sing! Experience the story of Stax Records, one of the most famous recording studios in the world, through interactive exhibitions and artifacts at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, celebrating its 20th year in 2023. The museum shares how creative individuals came together to write, record and produce some of the greatest soul music of all time, from Otis Redding to Booker T. and the M.G.’s to Wilson Pickett.
4. Uncover Clarksville’s African American Legacy
Clarksville’s African American Legacy Trail includes 24 stops at locations throughout Clarksville. From community gardens and historic churches to athletic, musical and business trailblazers — even an inspiring Olympic Champion — Clarksville is proud of this rich history. As the proud home of Wilma Rudolph, several of the stops focus on her story. Rudolph was the first woman from the United States to receive three gold medals in a single Olympic Game at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
5. Learn The Story Of The Clinton 12
In 1956, 12 students became the first to integrate a previously all-white school in Tennessee. Hear impactful stories from members of the Clinton 12 and how that legacy is told at Green McAdoo Cultural Center. On August 20, 1956, 12 Black students registered for school without incident, and it appeared it would happen peacefully. However, by that weekend, outside agitators showed up. Hear the inspiring story of how the town stood up against the rioters. Listen to their stories in episode 3 of the TN Civil Rights Trail Podcast.
The Magnolia Post