Governor Larry Hogan Closes the “Year of Frederick Douglass” with a Celebration at Banneker-Douglass Museum

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan addressed more than 200 visitors during a celebration held on Saturday, February 9 at the Banneker-Douglass Museum to conclude the “Year of Frederick Douglass.” The program included remarks from guest speaker Kenneth B. Morris, descendant of Frederick Douglass and Founder of Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives, as well as a performance by the Naval Academy Gospel Choir. The “Year of Frederick Douglass,” which runs from February 14, 2018 – February 14, 2019, was announced last February when Governor Hogan issued a proclamation establishing the commemorative year in observation of the bicentennial of the birth of the renowned abolitionist and Maryland native.

“This much-deserved tribute has helped us honor the great legacy of an incredible Marylander and a true American icon,” said Governor Hogan. “I want to sincerely thank everyone who has been involved in making this year of Frederick Douglass an incredible success.”

To celebrate the “Year of Frederick Douglass,” Banneker-Douglass Museum hosted over 30 Frederick Douglass-themed events, drawing in more than 9000 visitors. The celebration on Saturday, was co-hosted by the Maryland Commission on African-American History and Culture and the Banneker-Douglass Museum Foundation, Inc.

“As we conclude the ‘Year of Frederick Douglass’, we are honored to host this culminating celebration to recognize one of Maryland’s most noted African Americans,” said Chanel Compton, Director of the Banneker-Douglass Museum. “Over the past year, more than 9,000 visitors have joined us to learn about the rich heritage, history, and culture of Maryland’s African American communities, and we continue our commitment to excellence and innovation as we invite all members of the public to visit Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage.”

Located in downtown Annapolis since 1984, the Banneker-Douglass 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.

Last April, in addition to various Frederick Douglass-themed programs, Banneker-Douglass Museum announced the opening of the Douglass Reading Room. Open until February 28, 2019, the interactive exhibit brings to life the writings and living quarters of Frederick Douglass while connecting historical themes with modern day discussions. The “Douglass Reading Room” has hosted book readings, art exhibits, and educational workshops; and served as a space for dialogue, exploration, and learning. To see a full list of exhibitions on display at Banneker-Douglass Museum, visit: https://bdmuseum.maryland.gov/exhibitions/.

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 AM – 4 PM. Admission is free. To learn more about Banneker-Douglass Museum, visit: http://bdmuseum.maryland.gov/.

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