2021 Edition

 According to ncaahc.org, the book contains short histories of dozens of African American individuals and institutions who are significant to Tennessee’s past. Through a compilation of profiles from the conference’s 40 years, the book celebrates Black and African American contributions and achievements through family histories, little-known tales, and historic images. 

For more information and to read the full book click on the link.

 http://ncaahc.org/profiles-of-african-americans-in-tennessee/

Carter G. Woodson is considered the "father of Black history.  In 1926, Woodson decided that he wanted to designate a date to promote and educate people about the history of African Americans in the United States. 

Phyllis Wheatley who was sold into slavery in as a child became the first published African American female author in 1773

Bayard Rustin was behind the organizing the great "March On Washington" He was an important civil rights activist and architect for equality and justice during the civil rights movement

If you haven't visited the largest museuem dedicated to the preservation of African American history in the United States, then now may be the time to make plans to visit this historical museum. 

The museum carries over 40,000 artifacts relating to the history and culture of African Americans in the United States. 

You can visit the African American History and Culture Smithsonian Institute website :

www.nmaahc.si.edu

FREE...No Admission Charge for visitors. The Tennessee State Museum is one of the largest museum facilities in the nation, covering over 137,000 square feet. The museum also owns the National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel in Memphis. Upon touring the museum you will be able to view a wide array of Tennessee's  African American historical collections. The museum is located at 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 

"BLACK HISTORY YEAR "

Podcast

 Learning your history makes you - and your people - stronger. As Black people, we know we're left out of the history books. That we need access to experts, information and ideas so we can advance our people. Black History Year connects you to the history, thinkers, and activists that are left out of the mainstream conversations. According to the podcasters, you may not agree with everything you hear, but we're always working toward one goal: uniting for the best interest of Black people worldwide. BHY is produced by PushBlack, the nation's largest non-profit Black media company. 

 Nashville Conference on African American History and Culture

Please join us on Friday, February 13, 2026, for the 45th annual Nashville Conference on African American History and Culture! Both in-person (at Tennessee State University's Avon Williams Campus) and virtual attendance options are available. Pre-registration thru January 31 is $30, and standard registration (February 1-11) is $35. Both ticket types include a catered lunch, printed materials, and attendance for the day-long event. This year’s conference includes eight thoughtful presentations and musical performances by the W. Crimm Singers and MD and Cobalt Blue.

Registration for the 2026 conference is now open! You may register online through our Eventzilla page or return a completed registration form . 

For questions or to receive e-mail updates on the conference, contact Caroline.Eller@nashville.gov.