Trials, Tribulations, & Triumphs: A Baptisttown Trifecta
This exhibition, conceived by Executive Director Kori Miller, will feature rotating displays that thematically highlight the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of local Baptisttown residents. Although the erasure of Black history is concerning, institutions like the EAAM will continue to use their space to challenge these injustices. We aim to be a beacon of light during these dark times and to advocate for the Black narrative.
Community Collaboration with Sophia Okotah
This exhibit displays and celebrates traditional Ghanaian culture, specifically relating to the Ga-Dangme ethnic group situated in the south-eastern part of the Republic of Ghana.
Cultural Responsibility in Evansville: Collaborating for Social Justice
In a polarizing environment, how can Americans individually and collectively make a difference to better their communities? We all have differences, and learning about prejudices, biases, and allyship can help people become more thoughtful and empathetic community citizens. By becoming more aware of conscious and unconscious actions, individuals can take the necessary steps to address themselves effectively. Acknowledging how individuals treat others can enhance one's ability to advocate for inclusivity and equality within a community. Embracing this journey of self-discovery and growth will empower one to play a more informed and constructive role in fostering positive change. Ultimately, by confronting and challenging one's environment, individuals can redefine their approach as they navigate complexities and become united advocates for collective change and social justice.
This program has been made possible through a grant from Indiana Humanities in cooperation with the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Harlems of the Midwest Indiana and Lincoln Avenues
In the 20th century, Indiana Avenue, in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Lincoln Avenue. in Evansville, Indiana, were widely considered Black Wall Streets due to their successful Black economies. With vibrant communities, each Avenue flourished during the Jim Crow Era, and each Avenue had its own slice of the segregated American dream. From Black-owned businesses to entertainment venues, Black life was sustained within the confines of red-line boundaries that demarcated the perimeter of these communities. As the Avenues progressed throughout the 20th century, they nurtured and cultivated nationally influential Black musicians. Whether performing at the Madame Walker Theater in Indianapolis or Club Paradise in Evansville, the Avenues were recognized as "Harlems of the Midwest." Although booming, in 1969, Indiana Avenue was dismantled to create the Indiana University - Purdue University campus. The local government and the state seized over 400 acres of Black-owned land for what they considered "progress." or urban renewal. They displaced approximately 12,000 Black citizens in the process. In Evansville, the late 20th century provided its own set of challenges. Serving as the headquarters of the Ku Klux Klan and facing Jim Crow Era attitudes. Lincoln Avenue was ripped from its heights due to systematic oppression, Black community breakdown through bussing schemes, and Klan-led race riots down the Avenue.
While this exhibition focuses on the history and musical talent fostered along the Avenues, it will also demonstrate how the Evansville Black community is revitalizing Lincoln Avenue today. By paralleling the rise and fall of Indiana and Lincoln Avenues in the 20th century, this exhibit promotes current initiatives to revive Lincoln Avenue for the present and future Evansville Black community.
Baptisttown Reimagined: The Three Renaissances of the Black Community
This exhibition explores the 157 years of Baptisttown history by categorizing it into three Renaissances. Each Renaissance examines the growth and collapse of Black economics, housing, and education.
This program has been made possible through a grant from Indiana Humanities in cooperation with the National Endowment for the Humanities.