Recently we participated in a discussion about how JHC and other cultural, educational, civic and religious institutions can raise greater awareness about the contributions African Americans have made in Westchester over the last 400 years, since the first enslaved men, women and children were brought to the English colonies in 1619. The Jay Heritage Center has been a proud member of the African American Heritage Trail since 2004. Over the last 15 years, we have preserved and shared compelling and complex stories about our American Mosaic, past and present.
An exploratory group brainstormed about ways that historical societies, educational and religious institutions, cultural organizations and libraries can collaborate with municipalities to offer programs that inform and educate the public. The committee is in formation.
We look forward to collaborating with others over the next year and well beyond to support the initiatives embodied in the 400 Years of African-American History Commission Act.