The National Museum Of African American History And Culture Is Officially Open

Camille Augustin
Updated
History was made on September 24 with the grand opening of the National Museum Of African American History and Culture. Museum-goers will finally be able to witness what took 100 years to solidify.

History was made on September 24 with the grand opening of the National Museum Of African American History and Culture. One hundred years in the making, museum-goers will garner an unforgettable experience.

The National Mall in Washington, D.C., will serve as the home for the already legendary Smithsonian. To commemorate its opening, a ceremony was also attended by Stevie Wonder, Will Smith, former President George W. Bush, Oprah Winfrey, Angela Bassett, and President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

Rep. John Lewis also gave a moving speech during the ceremony. “It is important that The National Museum of African American History and Culture tells the unvarnished truth of America’s history — a story that speaks to the soul of our nation, but one few Americans know,” he said. “It’s a reminder that 400 years of history can’t be buried; its lessons must be learned. By bringing the uncomfortable parts of our past out of the shadows, we can better understand what divides us and seek to heal those problems through our unity.”

President Obama later took the podium to speak to a thunderous wave of cheers. “We are not a burden on America, or a stain on America, or an object of shame and pity for America. We are America,” he said.

For full details, check out the museum’s website here, and stream the entire event below.