A founder’s vision continues with honoring the African-American legacy in the Central Valley.

FRESNO, CA – Before he was the founder of the African-American Historical & Cultural Museum of San Joaquim Valley, (AAHCMSJV) Jack Albert Gilbert Frank Kelley, was a recognized and respected police officer who patrolled the streets of Fresno in the community he lived.

Officer Kelley began serving the Fresno Police Department (FPD) in 1949, to eventually become the department’s first African American Sergeant in 1969.

The AAHCMSJV which houses hundreds of historical photographs, artifacts and memorabilia dating back to the 1880’s, is known for its documentation of the numerous contributions of local African-Americans from throughout the San Joaquin Valley, profiling them through pictorial exhibits.

AAHCMSJV Executive Director, Gwen Morris, felt it was time to recognize African-American Men and Women in Law Enforcement throughout our Central Valley.

“The purpose of this pictorial exhibit is to update our pictorial, educate our community and especially our youth on the many heroes and sheroes of our Valley,” said Morris.

“Despite the conflicts happening in our nation today among peace officers and neighboring communities, there are many officers who have contributed to our communities, who are making a difference in the lives of many—we want to highlight just a few.

As the AAHCMSJV begins its 25 years celebration for its one-of-a-kind, pictorial gallery, the FPD has joined in partnership with the Museum for the upcoming opening reception to chorale more support for membership and participation.

“We are honored under the auspices of Sargent Kelley to be a part of this event,” said Captain Phil Cooley. “We look forward to continued partnership with community organizations such as the African-American Museum.”

WHAT: Opening Reception; A tribute to Jack Kelley and the African-American Law Enforcement Officers of the Central Valley

WHEN: Saturday, July 8, 2017, 4:00 PM -6:00 PM

WHERE: African-American Historical & Cultural Museum of SJV

1857 Fulton St., Fresno, CA, 93721

COST: $60.00 membership

The Pictorial Exhibit will be available from June 26th - July 29th. Membership is available on the AAHCMSJV website: www.aahcmsjv,org

For media inquiries call: 559-544-1857 -or- visit: http://www.aahcmsjv.org/