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WASHINGTON, D.C.—In an inspiring three-day celebration, the National Museum of African American History and Culture opened on the National Mall on Sept. 24.

 

The 10-story, 350,000-square-foot building filled with important historic objects and images is across the street from the Washington Monument. And as our country’s first black president serves his last few months in office and serious racial issues divide America, the opening of such a positive national museum that’s meant for all couldn’t have been timed any better!

 

The Saturday dedication was sensational. The president and first lady, two former presidents, celebrities and key people who made this Smithsonian museum happen were just some of the dignitaries on hand. Millions of other Americans watched the dedication on TV.

 

“Today…we gather on our National Mall to tell an essential part of our American story—one that has at times been overlooked—we come not just for today, but for all time,” President Barack Obama said.

 

While the new museum took four years to build, different groups and the federal government have wanted a museum dedicated to the history and culture of African Americans for more than a century!

 

The museum has five stories above ground and five below. Inside are displays that show the struggles, the triumphs and great contributions of African Americans.

Edition: 
Phoenix
Tucson
Issue: 
October 2016