In 1926 to help place emphasis on encouraging the coordinated teaching of the history of American blacks in the nation’s public schools the second week of February, to coincide with Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass’s birthdays, was announced to be “Negro History Week.” In 1969 it was first purposed by the leaders of the Black United Students of Kent State University to expand the week to a full “Black History Month” which was first observed in 1970. In 1976 to coincide with the nations Bicentennial Celebration President Gerald Ford spoke urging Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history” and Black History Month was officially recognized by the U.S. Government.
To celebrate Black History Month this year the American Adventure pavilion in Epcot, already home of the Kinsly Collection, added artwork to the rotunda showcasing American Americans that have had great impacts on American history.
Along with the added artwork, as I mentioned, since 2013 the American Adventure Pavilion has been home to over 40 pieces of the Kinsly Collection for display in The American Heritage Gallery as part of the “Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection.”
“The exhibit—themed to hope, belief, courage, imagination and heritage—showcases stories of American history from voices that are not commonly seen or heard. Art and artifacts pay homage to African-Americans who helped build and transform a nation.” With approximately 40 pieces of history this gallery is truly one of the hidden gems of Epcot.
The gallery also has very unique storytelling features in the magical lanterns that help showcase the stories of Hope, Belief, Heritage, Courage, and Imagination with some very familiar voices.
Since it is also the 15th anniversary of Disney’s California Adventure if you close your eyes while you watch this video you can almost hear the spirt of Califiai from Golden Dreams.
To learn more about The Kinsey Collection visit –http://www.thekinseycollection.com