A Glimpse into History: The Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum Comes to Connecticut College
Introduction to the Exhibition
From February 1 to 12, Connecticut College will host a compelling installation from the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum, Connecticut’s first and only dedicated African American history museum. This exhibition aims to shed light on the nuanced narratives of Black history, inviting attendees to explore the themes of representation, memory, and storytelling.
Opening Reception
The installation kicks off with an opening reception at 4 p.m. on February 2, taking place in the Chu Room of Charles E. Shain Library. This event not only marks the start of the exhibition but also engages visitors with dynamic discussions and opportunities to interact with the presented artifacts.
Curated Artifacts and Storytelling
The exhibit showcases a rich variety of curated artifacts, archival journalism, and films. Each piece has been meticulously selected to highlight how Black stories have been represented throughout history and who has had the authority to narrate these tales. This exploration encourages a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in telling history, especially from the perspective of those who lived it.
Partnership with the Black Student Union
The exhibition is presented in partnership with the college’s Black Student Union (BSU), strengthening community ties and promoting a sense of shared responsibility in storytelling. The initiative has been made possible by the Sharis ’86 & Thorn ’88 Pozen Endowed Fund for Excellence in Journalism, Writing, and Media, highlighting the importance of educational partnerships in enriching the cultural fabric of the institution.
Voices that Matter
BSU Co-President Kyaira Hall emphasized that this installation transcends simple exhibition. “It’s an opportunity for our community to engage with how stories are preserved, whose voices are amplified, and what it means when history is told by those who lived it,” she remarked. This sentiment underscores the exhibit’s mission: to foster dialogue and reflection on the narratives that shape our understanding of history.
Unique Documentary Screening
As part of the opening reception, attendees can look forward to a special screening of a previously unseen 45-minute documentary featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This rare footage chronicles his life, providing an unfiltered lens into the Civil Rights Movement and the challenges he faced. Discovered in a canister labeled only “MLK,” the film lacks formal credits or music, allowing viewers to witness history in its raw form. The documentary is narrated by a photojournalist who closely documented King’s journey, adding an intimate touch to the viewing experience.
Insights from Jeffrey Fletcher
Jeffrey Fletcher, the founder and owner of the Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum, will be presenting the screening. He aims to provide context and insights pertaining to the footage, enriching the audience’s understanding of Dr. King’s impact and the broader Civil Rights Movement. His expertise in curating African American history ensures that the narratives presented are not only engaging but also historically accurate.
Access and Visitor Information
The exhibition is free and open to the public, running daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the entry-level lobby foyer of the Charles E. Shain Library, located at 270 Mohegan Ave. This accessibility reinforces the museum’s commitment to educating and engaging the community, allowing everyone the opportunity to connect with the historical narratives on display.
Conclusion
This installation serves as a vital reminder of the importance of preserving and understanding Black history. Through artifacts, storytelling, and community engagement, the exhibit seeks to elevate marginalized voices and encourage dialogue about representation and memory. Visitors are invited not just to observe but to reflect critically on the stories that shape our collective history.