In earlier periods of American history, when segregation of so-called race and ethnic groups was written into law by those in power and enforced by any means necessary, a psychological condition blossomed that has continued to haunt America for centuries. The impact of physical slavery, experienced primarily by African Americans was indeed devastating, however, lingering effects of mental slavery on the American psyche of the entire population, regardless of race is what we are still trying overcome to today! This is largely due to the fact that integral parts of this on-going manipulative, controlling and oppressive process are dependent on suppression of true information, dissemination of false information (mis-education) and intentional fabrication of historical facts. One proven approach to tackling this dilemma in America’s “melting pot” societies today, is to broaden the concept and scope of cultural awareness and collaboration with community-based organizations. Throughout our target region, BHCH grassroots committees have been developing concepts to enhance public appreciation of cross-cultural education for many years.
Welcome to bh-museum.org a virtual black history & cultural heritage website, which also serves as a comprehensive “beyond walls” resource and information center for researching, documenting and acknowledging nation building contributions from America’s diverse populations, deserving of wider recognition, specifically from people of African descent, emanating from the South Bay region, who also progressively impact American and world history. This project is designed to bridge the “generational divide” that is currently stifling human development, cross-cultural awareness and legitimate efforts to address unresolved diversity issues, plaguing communities (especially the small pockets of blacks) spread throughout our region. Our long-range plans include establishing a physical museum location with administrative staff coordinating, exhibits, lectures, demonstrations tours and special events. A place where the entire region can learn about the rich, diverse cultures of African Americans, our evolution, how that has helped shape this nation and what it means moving forward, into the future.
The site also features rare artifacts, images, audio/visual aids, links to other sources, etc. So, we encourage you to support and participate in the “Legacy” of this virtual museum concept, by getting involved on some level. We look forward to working with you!
The BH-Museum.org of Peninsula, Silicon Valley and South Bay regions of Northern California, is an on-going project of Joyner/Payne Community Services, Inc. (formerly known as Joyner/Payne Youth Services Agency, Inc.), in collaboration with other community service organizations. This museum concept has been in progress for many years as a comprehensive, “beyond walls” resource center, devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and acknowledging historical contributions of Black Americans, especially those deserving of wider recognition, who have made considerable contributions to the South Bay Area region of Northern California, with related impacts on American and world history.
The Black History & Cultural Heritage Virtual Museum is our innovative approach to introducing a comprehensive and balanced museum concept to communities within our target region. We aim to collaborate with educational institutions, local municipalities, and grassroots community service agencies to address long-standing human issues by providing alternative and relevant information resources and services.
Our virtual platform, BH-museum.org, also serves as a major fundraiser for the completion of our planned physical location, currently under construction in San Jose, California. We invite everyone to participate and help make this venture a success!
