"We are determined to be people."

-Martin Luther King, Jr. from the speech, I've Been to the Mountaintop, delivered on April 3, 1968 at Mason Temple, Memphis, Tennessee

In commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first Africans in British North America, Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality will examine the long history of African Americans as they have fought for freedom, equal justice, and recognition of their humanity. Their actions have pushed our nation ever closer to its ideal of universal equality. 

This powerful exhibition will present more than 100 evocative objects, along with multi-media interpretive content. Displays will encourage guests to engage meaningfully with history, gain a greater appreciation for the profound impact African Americans have had on our commonwealth and country, and find connections between past events and their current lives. 

Four Centuries of Determination

Determined examines the ways in which the arrival of enslaved Africans in 1619 shaped the United States that we know today. The exhibition is arranged in chronological sections: The Colonial Period; American Revolution through the Civil War; Reconstruction through World War II; and the Civil Rights Movement through today. 

Connecting with Students, Teachers, and Families

Determined will be highlighted in a special family gallery guide, school tours, teacher resource packets, onsite and online teachers institutes, and other programming suitable for young people. There will also be a designated area for contemplation, study, and conversation. 

Advisory Committee

The committee consists of 12 scholars, museum professionals, and civic leaders who bring a diverse range of expertise on African American and Virginia history to the project. Learn more about the committee.