Here we are again getting ready for our busiest season. The museum is bustling with folks from around the world and I’m reminded how much I missed people during the pandemic and how much we need each other. I hope to see you with us soon either in person or virtually.
I’ve been waiting like a kid in the candy store and now, it’s out. “And the Beat Don’t Stop: 50 Years of Hip-Hop” is everything! When I walk into the space, I feel nostalgia and excitement and hope that pieces of our culture are being preserved. My daughter and new generations can explore and learn, listen and even participate in the experience. I invite you to put on your hip-hop inspired gear and bring your family out for a fun treat.
Juneteenth this year is giving birth to a new meaning of how we celebrate Black excellence in the city. We here at the museum, have been working not only internally but with other community members to create a spectacular month of innovative and thoughtful programming. We are thrilled to be back in person this year and have historic 9th St. buzzing with thousands of people. Music, food, activities, our hip-hop exhibit and more await our community. Learn more about how to become a vendor below and register for our newest addition, a 5K through some of our city’s most historic Black neighborhoods. We are working with hundreds of volunteers, sponsors, and community members to expand the newly branded Juneteenth in da Rock.
The recognition of “being present in the moment” has been moving me for a while. With all the buzzing of spring and preparation of what’s on the horizon, I don’t want to take for granted or miss what’s happening now. The museum has an amazing team that does the work of keeping Black history in Arkansas alive and going. I can’t express how important it is to be surrounded by people who truly love preserving this heritage for our state. Every team member is valuable, and I feel fortunate to work alongside some of the best museum leaders in the world.
Our museum renovation fund is a great way to honor those who are also passionate about preserving Arkansas’s Black history and culture. If you are interested in giving, contact our Director of Development Ron McDaniel or call the museum at 501-683-3620 for more details.
And before I sign off, let me say a big thank you to Telly Noel of The Design Group for joining for on my latest segment of Stay Key'ed In. The Design Group generously partnered with us to bring "And the Beat Don't Stop: 50 Years of Hip-Hop" to the museum. Check out our convo below.
Until Next Time, Stay Key'ed In!
Quantia "Key" Fletcher
Director MTCC
Click on the Juneteenth in da Rock logo to be directed to our official Juneteenth page for 5K registration and the Juneteenth vendor agreement (due June 1).