In recognition of Black History Month this year, we have chosen to spotlight the Museum of the African Diaspora, a San Francisco institution that supports contemporary art and culture from across the African diaspora. MoAD, which was founded in 2005, is one of the only museums in the United States that specifically centers the creative voices of people of African descent around the world.

MoAD is running several events centered around the celebration of Black History Month, as it does each year. One event we’d like to spotlight is the Black History Month Student Showcase, which presents student performances inspired by the Black Renaissance, in collaboration with 826 Valencia. Another event coming up this month is a conversation between Key Jo Lee, Darling Cool, and Delphine Sims on Black life in Germany through photography and music, presented in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut San Francisco, on Thursday, February 19th.

In addition to these limited-time events, MoAD consistently offers programs, exhibitions, and public events that invite our community to reflect on history, community, and identity through artistic expression. The panels, workshops, and family activities on offer encourage discussion about the myriad of ways that culture intersects with daily life.

For members of the League of Women Voters Berkeley Albany Emeryville, local institutions like MoAD highlight how cultural engagement and inclusive storytelling reshape the narrative and contribute to a stronger, more representative democracy.

Happy Black History Month!

–Adrienne Melodia