One hundred years ago, Sol Butler’s name was well known throughout the sports world. A multi-sport athlete, Butler set records at the University of Dubuque, was a quarterback in the early days of the NFL, competed in track and field at the Olympics and played pitcher and shortstop in the Negro Leagues. His achievements came […]
African American Museum of Iowa
Posted inCommunity/News
The African American Museum of Iowa is not afraid
When I moved to Iowa City 25 years ago, one of the first things I did to familiarize myself with my new surroundings was visit the African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) in Cedar Rapids. I only had two pieces of Black Iowa history under my belt: Lametta Wynn was the first Black mayor of […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Photo Gallery: African American Museum of Iowa holds grand reopening
The African American Museum of Iowa (AAMI) reopened on Saturday after being closed for renovations since 2022. The $5 million renovation project included changes to the building, such as constructing a new main entrance and expanding the lobby, as well as the addition of an interactive genealogy lab, which will help people research the history […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Artist Jordan Weber explores the intersection of climate and racial violence in collaboration with Cedar Rapids museums
Jordan Weber first began meditating when he was a junior in high school, with visions of professional basketball in his future. He read the book Sacred Hoops by long-time NBA player and coach Phil Jackson, which in turn led him to seminal Western practice text Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind. “I was extremely lucky to find […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Cedar Rapids’ Dale Todd among honorees at AAMI’s History Makers Gala
Each year, the African American Museum of Iowa uses its one and only annual fundraiser as an opportunity to honor African Americans from across the state who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. This year’s History Makers Gala will be held Thursday, Sept. 7, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Hotel at Kirkwood Center.
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Five for Five Seasons: Five women at the helm of area arts and culture organizations
Gail Naughton has announced she will retire in June 2018 from the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, an organization she has led since 2002. She is one of several female leaders who have been setting the course of some of the Cedar Rapids area’s most robust and innovative arts and culture organizations. Here are five of them.
Posted inArts & Entertainment
AAMI to open a new exhibit celebrating African American literature
Mightier Than the Sword Grand Opening African American Museum of Iowa — Friday, Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. The African American Museum of Iowa celebrates the opening of their newest exhibit on Friday, Aug. 26 with a free evening at the museum, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Mightier Than the Sword is an exploration of African […]
