News Summary
On February 7, the WeGOJA Foundation will debut the South Carolina Preservation Toolkit, an online guide designed to protect African American heritage in the state. The initiative addresses the urgent need for resources to safeguard historic sites, while also celebrating African American culture through various events throughout February, including a formal unveiling at the Brookland Banquet and Conference Center. This effort aims to engage communities in preservation actions and enhance tourism related to African American history.
Columbia Set to Unveil South Carolina Preservation Toolkit for African American Heritage
Exciting news is on the horizon for Columbia, South Carolina! The WeGOJA Foundation is all set to launch an online guide aimed at preserving the rich and vibrant African American heritage of the state. Scheduled for release on February 7, the South Carolina Preservation Toolkit is designed to help protect historic schools, churches, cemeteries, oral histories, and cultural landmarks across the Palmetto State.
Why This Toolkit Matters
This initiative comes at a critical time when many African American communities are in dire need of adequate funding and resources to safeguard their historical sites. The toolkit will serve as a valuable resource for property owners, project leaders, and community members, making it easier for everyone to get involved in preservation efforts.
The development of this toolkit didn’t happen overnight; it took a dedicated two-year effort to create a comprehensive resource that truly meets the needs of the community. The WeGOJA Foundation received funding from the Mellon Foundation, enabling them to provide a plethora of informative blog posts and articles covering essential topics like preservation leadership and project management.
Celebrating with a Big Reveal
To celebrate this notable achievement, a formal unveiling event is set for 6 p.m. on February 7 at the Brookland Banquet and Conference Center in West Columbia. This special evening will feature a keynote speech by a representative from the International African American Museum, ensuring that participants leave feeling enlightened and inspired.
Other Ongoing Projects
The WeGOJA Foundation has been busy with various projects aimed at enriching knowledge and tourism related to African American history. One such initiative is the creation of the “Green Book of South Carolina”, which guides visitors to historic sites and Black-owned businesses across the state, creating a meaningful connection to African American culture.
A February Full of Culture and Heritage
February is a significant month for celebrating Black history in South Carolina. The International African American Museum in Charleston has some thrilling events lined up for the occasion, placing a spotlight on influential African American figures. Among the programs, there will be a two-day celebration honoring the talented Eartha Kitt, highlighting her contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.
Activities during this month will also include concerts, poetry readings, and film screenings, all focused on African American history and culture. The renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers are even scheduled to perform and lead a masterclass at the museum, providing attendees a rare and enriching experience.
Preserving Charleston’s Heritage
Meanwhile, the Charleston City Council is making strides in preservation efforts, having approved a grant application to fund surveys of historic African American properties. This significant move aims to give a more thorough understanding of Charleston’s heritage, with a goal to double the number of surveyed properties under the city’s preservation initiatives.
With an allocated grant amount of $35,000, the surveys will be conducted by a professional historic architectural survey consultant starting in September 2024, with completion expected by September 2025. This means that Charleston is poised to uncover even more of its rich history in the years to come.
Join the Celebration!
With the impending launch of the South Carolina Preservation Toolkit and an array of events honoring African American history, February is shaping up to be an exciting month in Columbia and Charleston! Whether you’re deepening your knowledge of history or simply looking to engage with your local heritage, there’s something for everyone.
Mark your calendars and get ready to be part of this transformative journey toward preserving the stories, sites, and culture that make South Carolina truly special!
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: African American History
- New York Times
- Google Search: African American heritage preservation
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American Culture
- Black Enterprise
- Google News: International African American Museum
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
