The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia has been designated as a member of the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Network, a program that preserves stories of the Civil Rights Movement.

The museum, one of only two sites in Virginia with this designation, also recently received significant funding from several donors. This includes an anonymous $200,000 foundation gift, a $75,000 grant from Dominion Energy and a $45,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Richmond. These funds will support efforts to transform the museum’s original site into a center for scholarly research, including digitizing its collection.

“The African American Civil Rights Network designation highlights our ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the vital stories of the men and women who fought for civil rights and justice,” said Shakia Gullette Warren, executive director of BHMVA. “This designation from the National Park Service as well as the generous support from our donors are powerful affirmations of our mission and the value of our work.”

Dr. Monroe E. Harris Jr., president of the BHMVA board, added, “We are profoundly grateful for the unwavering support from our community and funding partners. Their belief in our mission and their generous contributions are a testament to the confidence they have in BHMVA’s ability to achieve its goals,” Harris said.

In September, the museum will open an exhibition titled “A Prescription for Change: Black Voices Shaping Healthcare in Virginia.”

The exhibit will explore achievements of Black medical professionals and examine health care disparities in the Black community.

For information on upcoming exhibitions and events, visit blackhistorymuseum.org.