African People and the Arts within the Federal Authorities
This weblog collection was written by Tina L. Ligon, Supervising Archivist on the Nationwide Archives in Faculty Park, Maryland
This yr, the Affiliation for the Examine of African American Life and Historical past (ASALH) celebrates the numerous inventive contributions of African People. The 109-year-old group selects annual themes to showcase all features of black life in America. This yr’s theme, African People and the Artspermits the expression of African American creativity within the visible arts, poetry and literature, movie, music, and comedy. The Nationwide Archives and Presidential Libraries maintain images, audio recordings, movement photos, and textual paperwork of black artists interacting with federal businesses for activism, official visits, and recognition of their achievements. Right now’s weblog highlights the data of presidential libraries.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded by the present President of the US to people whom the present President feels have made in particular meritorious contributions to the nation’s nationwide pursuits, world peace, or cultural significance. African-American artists within the fields of literature, music, and performing arts have acquired this award for his or her legendary contributions to American tradition.
Well-known authors and poets who’ve acquired the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his or her storytelling embody Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, and Ralph Ellison.
Black singers and musicians have acquired the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his or her contributions to the world of music and overcoming racial obstacles. A few of these recipients embody: Marian Anderson, Leontyne Value, Duke Ellington, Eubie Blake, Depend Basie, Pearl Bailey, Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, BB King, Diana Ross and Stevie Surprise.
Black actors and performers have additionally acquired Presidential Medals of Freedom for his or her work bringing African American tales to the stage and display screen, in addition to their social activism. A few of these recipients embody Cicely Tyson, Sidney Poitier, Alvin Ailey and Denzel Washington.
