WASHINGTON, DC – September 23, 2016 – Today, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) celebrates the efforts of Dr. Lonnie Bunch, The Smithsonian Institution, and the many museum benefactors on the grand opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall.
“Americans from all backgrounds will finally have the opportunity to learn and appreciate the important historical contributions African American institutions like that of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).” said Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President & CEO of TMCF.”
The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture will showcase individuals as well as events from the African American perspective. All 12 galleries work cohesively together to transport its visitors through well over 150 years in time. With five dedicated floors, the museum’s exhibits offer an interactive experience for all.
Upon visiting the museum, one of the pieces of history visitors will experience is the story behind the inception of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In addition, a section of the museum features a landmark decision that shifted the American education system closer towards equality and justice. The museum will spotlight the ruling of Brown v. Board of Education (1954) and Justice Thurgood Marshall’s efforts to end segregation in the American school system.
“The HBCU story is not just a subset of American history but is rather an intricate and important portion of the greater American story, “ said Taylor. “From our namesake, Justice Thurgood Marshall, to Oprah Winfrey, Althea Gibson, Secretary Rod Paige, W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington, and Marian Wright Edelman they are all towering figures that have enriched the fabric of America.”
TMCF encourages all Americans, especially HBCU students, to visit this new museum and learn more about the rich contributions African Americans have made in culture, academia, politics and society.
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About Thurgood Marshall College Fund
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), established in 1987 is named for the U.S. Supreme Court’s first African-American Justice. TMCF represents all Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and its member-schools include the 47 publicly-supported HBCUs. With TMCF member-schools educating 80% of all students attending HBCUs, TMCF helps students with a clear intention to succeed acquire a high-quality college education at an affordable cost. TMCF also efficiently connects high performing, world-ready students with top tier employment opportunities—access that students or employers might not have on their own. Through its scholarships and programs, TMCF plays a key role in preparing the leaders of tomorrow.
TMCF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, charitable organization. For more information about TMCF and its initiatives, visit: tmcf.org.
