The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia has achieved international recognition as one of the inaugural sites in UNESCO’s Network of Places of History and Memory. 

The museum is among just four U.S. locations selected for the first group of 22 places added to this prestigious network established by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). As part of this global network, BHMVA will collaborate with other member sites to share best practices in historical preservation, cultural promotion and educational programming.

“I’m thrilled that UNESCO has recognized the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia in their work to advance the essential memory and education of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and its victims through the creation of this new network,” said Shakia Gullette Warren, executive director of BHMVA.

The first 22 places joining the Network of Places of History and Memory were unveiled at an event at UNESCO headquarters in Paris last week, as part of the 30th anniversary of the organization’s flagship program called “Routes of Enslaved Peoples.” 

Since its creation by UNESCO in 1994, “Routes of Enslaved Peoples” has contributed to the production of innovative knowledge and education programs, the development of high-level scientific networks, and to remembering the experiences of enslaved peoples.

Earlier this year, BHMVA was designated as a member of the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Network.