African American History

Juneteenth National Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. And as happens each year, several local events commemorate the day. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor was joined by the President of the NAACP Ann Arbor branch, Andre' Watson, to talk about what is going on locally, but more importantly, what this day means to residents in Washtenaw County.

Friday marks the start of celebrations and remembrances that will continue throughout the weekend as the community observes Juneteenth. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Washtenaw County officials are holding a flag-raising ceremony to usher in Juneteenth celebrations. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County (AACHM) has been making strides in its efforts to rehabilitate and transform Woodlawn Cemetery in Ypsilanti Township, the only known African American graveyard in Washtenaw County. AACHM Board Chair Dr. Debby Covington joined Lee Van Roth to talk about the progress already made on the project and what else is planned.

Scientists from Terracon are currently at a historic African American graveyard in Ypsilanti. They are conducting a non-invasive geophysical survey as part of a key step in restoring the site. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

More than half a century after his death, the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. continue to shape movements around the world. At the center of his message was a radical idea — that real strength is found not in retaliation, but in restraint. That was a message given—and received—loud and clear when Dr. King made his visit to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan campus. As we approach the end of Black History Month, WEMU’s John Stockwell takes a closer look at Dr. King’s message and the enduring power of nonviolence.

WEMU's David Fair got together with Marquee Arts' own Nick Alderink to chat about the new films arriving in theaters this weekend and the latest round of special screenings coming to downtown Ann Arbor! Plus, they took time to remember actor Robert Duvall and filmmaker Frederick Wiseman, who both passed away this week.

The origins of Black History Month began 100 years ago. The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County is commemorating the anniversary with an event tonight. It’s in collaboration with the Ypsilanti District Library. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

A lakeside community outside of Chelsea has long served as a rural retreat and residence for African American families. WEMU’s Ana Longoria shares this Black History Month story.

There was one African American regiment from Michigan that fought in the Civil War. Their story is being told in a recently published book. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.