From 1619 to Today Part III: Youth Mural Project & Book Giveaway was a Success

On June 11, 2022, youth and community members came together for the culminating event, “From 1619 to Today Part III” to create a mural of Harriet Tubman in celebration of Tubman’s year-long 200th Birthday Celebration while incorporating themes from The 1619 Project by Nicole Hannah-Jones. 

The mural concept was developed by Chanel Compton, artist and Executive Director of the Banneker-Douglass Museum. Chanel then presented the concept to Gina Marie Lewis, Professor of Art at Bowie State University, who designed the basic composition that included Harriet Tubman and significant years.

Adinkra symbols were painted by youth and community members throughout the mural to symbolize “Freedom in Emancipation”, “Trust in God”, “Abundance”, and more. Attendees also received free copies of The New York Times bestseller, The 1619 Project.

The “From 1619 to Today” series was a partnership between Banneker-Douglass Museum, Baltimore Read Aloud, Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and the Bowie State University Department of Fine and Performing Arts. In this three part series, we explored the influence of race on the Annapolis community from 1619 to today through public readings, youth presentations, group discussions, and this community mural/book giveaway event. Special thanks goes to the Rotary Club of Annapolis, who was the Part III event sponsor. 

Come check out the mural at the Banneker-Douglass Museum in the Frederick Douglass Reading Room, Tuesday-Saturday, 10am – 4pm.