A Century of Schomburg: Unveiling the Legacy of Black Culture

In this episode of "The Harlem Voice, Stories of Success, Collaboration, and Opportunity," guest host Marko Nobles engages with Joy Bivins to discuss the monumental centennial celebration of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. As the Center celebrates its 100th anniversary, Joy, who has been at the helm as the Director for nearly four years, shares remarkable insights about her journey and the Center's pivotal role in preserving Black cultural history and fostering education and research.

The Schomburg Center, a pillar of Black history and culture, is spotlighted as it embraces its centennial year. Joy Bivins takes listeners through the intricacies of planning this milestone event, which includes an exhibition that highlights the Center’s vast collection of Black historical documents and works. She emphasizes the importance of honoring both the legacy and the future of the Schomburg Center amid the current political climate that challenges the recognition of Black contributions to history. This episode is rich with information on how the Schomburg continues to serve as a sanctuary for Black learning and an inspiration for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

• Joy Bivins joined the Schomburg Center in 2020, progressing to become its Director in 2021, and her leadership has been integral during its centennial celebrations.

• The Schomburg Center reaches a 100-year milestone with a focused centennial exhibition and series of events highlighting its historical significance and future aspirations.

• Joy discusses the challenges faced by institutions like the Schomburg in the current political climate, stressing the importance of federal and private support for preserving Black history.

• The centennial events are designed to showcase the Center’s offerings while encouraging ongoing community engagement and learning.

• The conversation marks the Schomburg Center’s role as integral not only to Harlem’s history but to global recognition of Black culture and contributions.

Notable Quotes:

• “I'm a native of Chicago... I studied Black studies, African American studies, African studies, then in grad school, Africana studies.” - Joy Bivins

• “Getting to 100 is a major milestone. And I was like, well, I want to be in the number when we get to 100.” - Joy Bivins

• “The Schomburg can't really be beat in terms of reputation when you study black history and black culture.” - Joy Bivins

• “I think what we have been and what we are has been multiple things... a library, a place of directed study, and a sanctuary for culture.” - Joy Bivins

• “We collect so that people can utilize it to learn.” - Joy Bivins

Resources:

• Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture Website: schomburg.org

• Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce: greaterharlemchamber.com

Listeners are encouraged to explore the Schomburg Center, participate in the centennial celebrations, and continue supporting the invaluable work that captures and preserves Black cultural and historical narratives. Tune in to this enlightening episode of "Harlem Voice" to learn more about the Schomburg's rich legacy and vision for the future.