Studies and Guides

In the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., we are invited to the possibility of revelation, repentance, and perhaps redemption. It is a quest—a pilgrimage. In order to lament and celebrate the past, in order to understand the uniqueness of particular people and places and the repeated refrains of this present moment that allow us to work toward a more just and redeemed future, we must explore the narratives of African Americans—narratives that are integral to the story but often ignored or dismissed as side characters in our national story.

This pilgrimage invites participants to explore the history, faith, and lives of African Americans, to make connections to the current spiritual and socio-political moment, and to discuss how that impacts our responsibilities and possibilities for the dream of Beloved Community.*

Our 34-page guide, written by Micky ScottBey Jones and produced by CSA’s Racial Justice Institute, offers background to help groups or individuals prepare for visiting the museum, in a posture of experiencing the museum as a place of pilgrimage.

Your purchase supports CSA’s Racial Justice Institute!