SAAACAM’s Journey to the 46th Annual AAAM Conference
The San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum (SAAACAM) recently embarked on a significant journey to Baltimore, attending the 46th Annual Conference of the Association of African American Museums (AAAM). This trip was not just about attending a conference but was a pivotal part of SAAACAM’s preparation for its upcoming expansion into the historic Kress-Grant buildings on Houston Street, which will make it the third-largest African American museum in the U.S. and the largest in Texas.
Networking and Learning at the AAAM Conference
The conference, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, gathered leading figures from cultural institutions, museums, and academia to discuss and advance African American art, culture, and history. The SAAACAM team, consisting of eleven staff members, engaged in networking opportunities and gained insights from peers across the nation. “My experience at the Association of African American Museums Conference in Baltimore was both enriching and inspiring,” said Jedda Silva from SAAACAM’s archives department. “I gained valuable insights into new archival techniques and had ample opportunities to network with like-minded professionals dedicated to preserving African American history and culture.”
Exploring African American History in D.C. and New York City
In addition to the conference, the team took time to explore Washington, D.C., and New York City, visiting significant African American historical sites such as the Frederick Douglass House and the African Burial Ground National Monument. These excursions enriched their understanding of African American history and provided a broader context for their work back in San Antonio.
SAAACAM’s Growing Influence and Cultural Impact
SAAACAM’s presence was felt beyond San Antonio, with their oral history template being used in academic settings and their merchandise spotted in D.C., showcasing their growing influence. The trip was capped with a series of cultural experiences, including a traditional Maryland crab feast and a Broadway performance of “The Wiz.”
Preparing for SAAACAM’s Expansion and Future Impact
This journey not only reinforced the museum’s mission but also equipped the team with fresh perspectives and ideas to bring back to their community, as they prepare for the museum’s expansion and continued role in preserving African American history.
