Clark County Historical Museum Speaker Series Presents “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues: African American Innovation Through Pop Culture” (Photo) -03/07/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Clark County Historical Museum Speake Series Presents “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues: African American Innovation Through Pop Culture” 

 

Vancouver, WA – The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is proud to present “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues: African American Innovation Through Pop Culture,” a captivating lecture by LaToya Brackett, part of the CCHM Speaker Series. This thought-provoking presentation will explore the profound impact of African American culture on mainstream pop culture, highlighting the significant contributions of Black Americans in music, sports, language, food, and beyond.

The lecture is made possible through the generous support of the Humanities Washington Speakers Bureau, with additional sponsorship from the Historic Preservation Commission.

 

Event Details
Date: Friday, April 4, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 5:00 PM)
Location: Clark County Historical Museum
1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 978660
Admission: FREE

 

African Americans have faced centuries of oppression and marginalization, but throughout history, they have shown incredible resilience and creativity. Their cultural innovations, born out of necessity and struggle, have shaped modern pop culture in ways that are often overlooked or misunderstood. “They Want Our Rhythm, But Not Our Blues” seeks to address this dynamic by examining the intersections of African American culture in areas such as music, sports, language, food, and even hair.

 

In this lecture, LaToya Brackett will lead the audience through an exploration of how African American culture is both a vital and complex part of contemporary popular culture. The presentation challenges us to appreciate the deeper narratives of pain and perseverance that have shaped these contributions. Through her engaging insights, LaToya will shed light on how the struggles and triumphs of African Americans are embedded in the fabric of modern artistic expressions.

 

About the Clark County Historical Museum
The Clark County Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Clark County and the surrounding region. Through educational programs, exhibits, and special events, the museum fosters a greater understanding of the past and its influence on the present.

 

About Humanities Washington
Humanities Washington strengthens communities by fostering meaningful discussions about our shared values, ideas, and history. Their Speakers Bureau brings together expert speakers to engage communities with thought-provoking topics across the state of Washington.

 

About the Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission works to preserve and protect Clark County’s historic sites, ensuring that the region’s rich history is maintained for future generations.

For more information on the event, please visit the Clark County Historical Museum’s website at cchmusuem.org

Clark County Historical Museum Announces New Exhibit “This Is Our Legacy”: Commemorating The 80th Anniversary Of The NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B (Photo) -03/04/25

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Clark County Historical Museum Announces New Exhibit “This Is Our Legacy”
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B

Vancouver, WA — March 4, 2025

 

The Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) is proud to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, “This Is Our Legacy”, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B. Created in partnership with the NAACP Vancouver, the exhibit shares the community’s stories in their own words and on their own terms. This milestone exhibit highlights the significant contributions and lasting impact of Vancouver’s Black community, charting the work of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B in advocating for racial justice, equity, and community empowerment over the past eight decades.

 

Exhibit launch and Opening Reception

 

Join us for the launch of our newest exhibit and opening reception on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Clark County Historical Museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660. The event is free and open to the public.

Inspired by Leadership & Vision

The exhibit draws inspiration from the words and vision of Yolanda Frazier, a former president of the Vancouver branch. Her advocacy and commitment to justice have left a lasting legacy for future generations.

This exhibit invites visitors to engage with the history of Vancouver’s Black community, while reflecting on the ongoing efforts needed to achieve racial equity.

Exhibit Overview

“This Is Our Legacy” takes you on a journey through the struggles, victories, and ongoing work for racial equity led by the NAACP Vancouver. From its founding in April 1945 by a small group of dedicated individuals, the branch has been a pivotal force in advocating for civil rights in Vancouver and beyond.

Key features of the exhibit include:

• Early Housing Struggles – Learn about the challenges Vancouver’s Black community faced in ongoing efforts to secure fair housing.

 

• Landmark Civil Rights Achievements – Discover the pivotal moments and victories led by the NAACP Vancouver, and how these achievements shaped the community.

 

• Youth Empowerment Through ACT-SO – Explore how the branch’s ACT-SO program continues to provide mentorship and recognition to Black youth in the community.

 

• Key Figures & Stories – The exhibit highlights leaders such as Mark A. Smith, the first NAACP Vancouver president, and Yolanda Frazier, former branch president, whose leadership remains a guiding force for justice and equity in the region.

 

The exhibit brings together a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and engaging displays that reflect on the history and ongoing work of the NAACP Vancouver Branch 1139-B in the fight for civil rights.

Generous Supporters

This exhibit was made possible by the generous support of the City of Vancouver Culture, Arts, and Heritage Commission, the Washington State Historical Society Diversity in Local History Grant, and the Divine Consign Grant.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the numerous individuals and organizations whose support has been integral to this exhibit, including local leaders Yolanda Frazier, Larry Nelson, Bridgette Fahnbulleh, and Joshua and Smith Families  as well as many others who have dedicated their time, energy, and resources to preserving and sharing the history of the NAACP Vancouver Branch.

Acknowledgments

This exhibit would not have been possible without the contributions of the following individuals and organizations:

 

 

• Tanaka Axberg

• Masako Brachmann

• Katie Bush

• Rev. Bruce DeGooyer

• Sam Edmundson

• Bridgette Fahnbulleh

• Yolanda Frazier

• Sammuel Hawkins

• Pepper Kim

• Larry Nelson

• Library of Congress

• MOHAI (Museum of History and Industry)

• Willard Nettles, Jr.

• Oregon Historical Society

• Oregon State University Special Collections and Library Research Center

• Sandy’s Sign

• Charles Simmons

• Darlene Smith

• Reverend Joyce Smith and the Community A. M. E. Zion Church

• Washington State Libraries

• Melissa E. E. Williams

• Alex Wilson

About Clark County Historical Museum

The Clark County Historical Museum is dedicated to the preservation, education, and interpretation of Clark County’s rich history. Through exhibits, public programs, and special events, the museum connects the past to the present, encouraging a deeper understanding of the community’s diverse heritage.

For more information about the exhibit, please visit www.cchmuseum.org or contact the Clark County Historical Museum at outreach@cchmuseum.org or 360-993-5679.

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Media Contact:
Sammuel Hawkins
Outreach & Public Programs Manager
360-993-5679
Outreach@cchmuseum.org

 

Clark County Historical Museum To Host Spring Equinox Native Art Market! (Photo) -02/27/25

After last year's successful Indigenous Peoples Markets, the Clark County Historical Museum is excited to announce the upcoming Spring Equinox Native Art Market on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the museum, located at 1511 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660.

 

This vibrant event will showcase 16 talented local Indigenous artists and vendors, including many returning favorites as well as fresh faces presenting their work for the first time. Attendees can explore and purchase a diverse array of handcrafted items, including unique art, jewelry, crafts, and other Indigenous-made goods -- perfect for personal collections or thoughtful gifts.

 

In addition to the marketplace, visitors will enjoy a live performance by internationally acclaimed Native American flutist Dr. Sherrie Davis Morningstar, whose music will beautifully complement the celebration of Indigenous culture and artistry.

 

The Clark County Historical Museum will also be open and free to the public during the event, offering a chance to explore exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Southwest Washington.

 

The Spring Equinox Native Art Market is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local Indigenous artists, support their work, and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous traditions and craftsmanship.

 

For more details, visit www.cchmuseum.org or contact the museum at 360-993-5679.