City Council Honors Black History Month with an exhibit by Providence City Archives
«South Side: Where Providence Begins» Exhibit Open
PROVIDENCE, RI (February, 14, 2019) – On Thursday, February 14, 2019 a new exhibit will open to the public on the day of Frederick Douglass’ believed date of birth. The exhibit shares the story of the African American Community in South Providence, commemorating a history full of both triumphs and struggles.
In honor of Black History Month, the Providence City Council and Providence City Archives partnered to create the exhibit “South Side: Where Providence Begins,” which will be showcased throughout the month of February until April 12, 2019. Located on the third floor of City Hall, the display showcases archival documents and historic information including maps, city documents, newspaper articles and biographies.
City Council Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11), the Chairwoman of the Black History Committee and Councilman Luis Aponte (Ward 10), Co-Chairman will host the official opening ceremony for the exhibit on Friday, February 22, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. “This year we are shinning the spotlight on South Providence as a whole,” stated Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris. “People of color came to this City with limited resources and transformed South Providence into the vibrant neighborhood that it is today. Through this exhibit we are highlighting this resilient community and how they have shaped the history of Providence.”
“South Side: Where Providence Begins” is an homage to a region, whom many consider, the cultural and ethnic melting pot of Rhode Island. The exhibit is narrated through the social and historical lens of the African American community. From the post-WWII era; through the Civil Rights, education, and the Fair Housing Movement of the 60s, 70s & 80s; to the present, this exhibit explores the diaspora, adversity, growth, and achievement of African Americans – and people of color – who inhabit Wards 9, 10, & 11 of Providence.
Curated tours will be every Thursday starting at noon on the third floor of City Hall. Tours will also be available upon request by calling the Providence City Council Office at (401) 521-7477.
For more information, visit us on the web at council.providenceri.gov