Banneker-Douglass Museum Releases Video From ‘Year of Frederick Douglass,’ Invites Marylanders to Join Celebration

ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Banneker-Douglass Museum today announced the release of a promotional video for the museum’s celebration to close out the “Year of Frederick Douglass.” The “Year of Frederick Douglass,” which runs from February 14, 2018 – February 14, 2019, was announced last February when Governor Larry Hogan issued a proclamationestablishing the commemorative year in observation of the bicentennial of the birth of the renowned abolitionist and Maryland native.

“The Year of Frederick Douglass has helped spark renewed public interest in learning about the rich heritage, history, and culture of Maryland’s African American communities, and our Frederick Douglass themed events combined with our new and existing programming has drawn in large numbers of visitors from around the nation,” said Chanel Compton, Director of the Banneker-Douglass Museum. “We are excited to release this promotional video inviting all to join us as we celebrate the outstanding success of the Year of Frederick Douglass.”

The Banneker-Douglass Museum has hosted nearly 30 Frederick Douglass-themed events in 2018, including the opening of the “Douglass Reading Room” – a temporary exhibit guest curated by Greg Morton, artist and owner of one of Frederick Douglass’ former Baltimore homes. These events along with the introduction of new programming have generated renewed enthusiasm, with over 9,000 visitors recorded in 2018.

The Banneker-Douglass Museum ‘Year of Frederick Douglass’ concluding celebration will be held in the museum on February 9, 2019 from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, and will be co-hosted by the Banneker-Douglass Museum Foundation. The program will include remarks from special guest speaker, Kenneth B. Morris, Frederick Douglass decedent and founder of Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives. Individuals interested in attending should register by visiting: https://conta.cc/2Fazznw.

Located in downtown Annapolis, Banneker-Douglass Museum serves as the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage. Since opening its doors in 1984, the museum has continued to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds to share the rich cultural traditions and history of Maryland’s African American community through programs and exhibitions highlighting the importance of education, community, and historic preservation. A full list of upcoming events can be found by visiting: https://bdmuseum.maryland.gov/events/.

Banneker Douglass Museum is a unit of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives. The Banneker-Douglass museum is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Admission is free. To learn more about Banneker-Douglass Museum, visit: http://bdmuseum.maryland.gov/.