By Sylvia H.

For Black History Month, HCLS Miller Branch is collaborating with two local organizations, the African Art Museum of Maryland and Howard County Center of African American Culture, to bring the history and accomplishments of Black Americans to some of our youngest customers.

The African Art Museum of Maryland (AAMM) presents their African Experience Tour, an interactive program incorporating hands-on art exploration, videos, and rich discussion. Mrs. Doris Ligon, director and co-founder of the museum, facilitates the event for children ages 8 – 11 on Wednesday, February 15.

AAMM was founded in 1980 as the first museum in Columbia, MD. It is one of only three museums of its kind in the United States devoted exclusively to the art of Africa, as well as the only one founded by an African American. With more than 40 years in operation, the museum has shared stunning pieces created by distinguished artists with the local community and beyond; many of the artists are internationally known. Visit africanartmuseum.org to learn more about the museum.

Marcus ‘Sankofa’ Nicks, curator of the Howard County Center of African American Culture (HCCAAC), continues his work with us through a new educational program, Sankofa Children’s Academy. Two sessions about Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the creation of Black History Month through interactive discussion and hands-on activities are happening on Saturday, February 18: for ages 3 – 5 with adult and for ages 6 – 8.

Sankofa Children’s Academy, a new educational program, supports the holistic development of children socially, emotionally, intellectually, and culturally. Youth participants can learn in a multitude of ways to enhance confidence, self-esteem, and social skills.

Founded in 1987, HCCAAC works to preserve and share African American history and culture within Howard County. The museum exhibits a unique collection of artifacts, vintage clothing and materials, along with events that tell the story of African Americans within our community. Visit hccaac.org to learn more about the organization and its work.

African Experience Tour

Wednesday, Feb 15 4:30 pm & 7 pm, HCLS Miller Branch, Ages 8 – 11.
Tickets will be available at the children’s desk 15 minutes before class begins.

Sankofa Children’s Academy

Saturday, Feb 18 11 am HCLS Miller Branch, Ages 3 – 5 with adult; 12:30 pm, Ages 6 – 8.
Tickets will be available at the children’s desk 15 minutes before class begins.

Sessions continue at Miller Branch throughout the spring.

Saturday, March 18 11 am & 12:30 pm

Saturday, April 15 11 am & 12:30 pm

Saturday, May 13 11 am & 12:30 pm

We hope you are able to explore both the African Art Museum of Maryland and Howard County Center of African American Culture, as well as learn about other local points of knowledge!

Sylvia is a Children’s Instructor and Research Specialist at the Miller Branch. She enjoys crafting, listening to audiobooks, naps, and walks with her dogs in 75 degree-ish weather.