February continues with the famous Tuskegee Airmen intertwined with census history through a town hall
FRESNO, CA – From the African-American pilot to the navigators, bombardiers, mechanics, instructors, crew chiefs, nurses, and cooks—these were the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II.
Then there were the pilots, who were the first to risk their lives, the first to go into air-combat missions for the US Army Air Forces – The Red Tails.
Racially segregated and not recognized as full citizens in the United States, all of these African-American men of the military risked their lives for American Citizens … and now their story will be told at the African-American Historical & Cultural Museum of the San Joaquin Valley (AAHCMSJV) starting February 6th until March 5th.
Created by artist Leroy “Buddy” Gibson with the intent to provide mentorship for youth and knowledge of the Tuskegee Airmen’s contributions as African Americans in World War II, the exhibit is based upon the heroics of the 99th Fighter Squadron and 332nd Fighter Group, and their support staff, commonly known as the Tuskegee Airmen.
Thanks to the San Joaquin Valley Health Fund Census 2020 grant, the AAHCMSJV was awarded funding to assist with the exhibit procured, The Red Tail Exhibit: “The Mobile Showcase Exhibit” which will have an opening reception this Thursday, Feb 2. 6 combined with the Census 2020 State of Black Fresno County Town Hall Part 2, from 5:30 PM- 8:00 PM at the African-American Museum located at 1857 Fulton St., Fresno, CA 93721. Light refreshments will be served.
The 2020 Census Town Hall: State of Black Fresno County Part 2 - Economic Health will address the issues of homelessness in the Black community coupled with incarceration from 6:00p -8:00p. Part 3 State of Black Fresno County will be at the closing reception of the Red Tails Exhibit March 5, 2020.
Groups tours are available Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM; call 559-544-1857, or request tour via email: aahcmsjv@gmail.com
For docent-guided tours call: 559-544-1857 -or- visit: http://www.aahcmsjv.com/
