Events to mark opening of International African American Museum in Charleston

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The International African American Museum has released additional details for opening week events, including a worship service on June 22 and a dedication ceremony community gathering on June 24.

The festivities will begin with an opening worship service on Thursday, June 22, at Morris Brown AME Church. Beginning at 6 p.m., the multi-faith celebration of IAAM’s opening will help build community, reflect on the work that led to the museum’s opening, and celebrate the long history of the African -American people and their culture, which is woven into the fabric of the museum. Registration is free but required for this event, according to an IAAM news release.

On Saturday, June 24, a dedication ceremony community watch event in Marion Square will bring visitors and members of the community together for a live simulcast of the ceremonies and presentations taking place at the museum and on-site at Marion Square, the release stated. Presented by Boeing, the watch celebration will include live performances from the African American Songbook featuring a 12-piece band, local and big-name musicians and artists, and refreshments from Black-owned food trucks.

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Boeing South Carolina’s DreamLearners, an educational program that provides students with opportunities to learn about careers in STEM, advanced manufacturing, and aerospace, will also host a celebration event in the square. Led by the Boeing Black Employee Association, volunteers will help lead the interactive STEM-based DreamLearners programming, which will feature paper airplane building, flight competitions with free Boeing swag, and additional giveaway items. Registration for the public is not required. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Details are below.

Opening Worship Service

What: IAAM will co-host a multi-faith-based worship service with Morris Brown AME to mark the opening of the museum.

When: Thursday, June 22, at 6 p.m.

Where: Morris Brown AME Church, 13 Morris St., Charleston

Who: Speakers include Dr. Tonya Matthews (president and CEO of IAAM), Bishop Samuel Green, the Rev. DeMett Jenkins (director of education and engagement for faith-based communities at IAAM), among others.

Community Watch Celebration for Dedication Ceremony

What: The dedication ceremony community watch celebration will include a live simulcast of the ceremony, in addition to live performances by local musicians and artists, food trucks, and activities led by Boeing South Carolina DreamLearners. The presenting sponsor for the Dedication Community Watch Celebration is Boeing.

When: Saturday, June 24, at 10 a.m.

Where: Marion Square. 329 Meeting St., Charleston

Who: Boeing South Carolina DreamLearners, local musicians and artists, Black-owned food trucks, surprise guests, and more