‘Overcoming Hateful Things’ Exhibit Opens In Downtown Detroit

As we celebrate Black History Month, metro Detroit is offering many ways to celebrate.  In fact, a traveling exhibit from Ferris State University’s Jim Crow Museum of Racist Imagery is officially open. You can check out the exhibit at the Wayne County Community College District in Downtown Detroit.

The exhibit is called "Overcoming Hateful Things: Stories from the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Imagery." According to its website, it explores the Jim Crow system, the African American experience through the Jim Crow era, and the legacies of this system in modern society. "Hateful Things will cultivate understanding and empathy for victims of racial intolerance throughout history to the modern day and allow visitors to bear witness to the need to guard against the dehumanizing characterizations of others, so they do not become further culturally entrenched," said the website.

From Aunt Jemima advertisements to children’s games, they’ll also explore American popular culture with racist images. It will feature an extensive collection of racist objects that trace the history of the "caricaturing and stereotyping of African Americans."

According to its website, the traveling exhibition contains over 150 items of material culture from the late 19th century to the present, embodying the terrible effects of the Jim Crow legacy. In addition to items from popular and commercial culture, the traveling exhibit contains images of violence against African Americans as well as the Civil Rights activists struggling for racial equality.

The exhibition is free and open to the public and will be available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wayne County Community College District is located at 1001 West Fort Street in Detroit.

Other events include the With Liberty and Justice for All exhibit happening at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation at 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn all month long. As well as the Detroit Institute of Arts’ "Regeneration: Black Cinema, 1898-1971," which honors the legacy of African Americans in film. It’s located at 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit.

Detroit has played a special role in some of our nation’s most significant historical moments. From its involvement in the Underground Railroad, where Detroit served as the final refuge for many slaves seeking freedom, to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivering his first version of the I Have a Dream speech at Detroit’s convention center, Huntington Place, the city has etched its name alongside iconic figures.

Even today, Detroit remembers its past, not just during Black History Month but all year round. With plenty of art, monuments, and inclusive businesses, the city provides both locals and visitors the chance to celebrate Black history and partake in remarkable experiences.

There are many small Black-owned businesses in metro Detroit. Supporting these enterprises not only keeps your dollars within the local economy but also contributes to empowering entrepreneurs. The list of Black-owned businesses in Detroit continues to expand, with many owners establishing their ventures in their communities.

Throughout February, there are many events in the community celebrating Black History Month. You can learn new things and explore the city by checking out what different organizations in metro Detroit are doing.

Detroit's museums and galleries consistently deliver enriching experiences, particularly with their Black History Month exhibits, collections, and events. While these cultural institutions are a must-visit during any trip to metro Detroit, February has even more opportunities to explore and celebrate Black History Month.

Whether you spend time at a special exhibit or grab a bite at one of Detroit's many black-owned businesses, experiencing Black History Month in metro Detroit is like going on a fun adventure.

This year, there are a bunch of fascinating events happening across metro Detroit to celebrate Black History Month, from online tours to movie screenings and pop-up shops. Check out what different groups are doing to make this month special.

Detroit Book City's 8th Annual African-American Family Book Expo is set to take place on Feb. 17. Attendees will have the opportunity to buy signed books from Black independent authors nationwide, all while commemorating Black History Month. The event will be held at the Historic People's Church, 8601 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Additional details can be found here.

Currently, the exhibit Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design is on display until March 31. This latest showcase showcases over 60 original designs by the Two-Time Academy Award-winning costume designer, Ruth E. Carter, from renowned films like Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing, and others. Alongside this, visitors can explore permanent exhibits like Detroit Performs! and And Still We Rise.

When you visit, you'll go back in time by checking out cool displays, the real home where Berry Gordy and his family lived when the label started, and the original recording gear and famous Studio A. Knowledgeable guides will show you around and tell you interesting stories about what happened at Hitsville U.S.A. Motown Museum is located at Berry Gordy Jr. Boulevard, 2648 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. They're open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Explore the history of old Detroit and the Underground Railroad, retracing the steps of former slaves on their quest for freedom. Witness their achievements in industry, sports, and the arts after their arrival. Join in the celebration of Detroit's Black Entrepreneurs at the Hustle Gala hosted by the Detroit Historical Society, located at 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit on Feb. 3.