05-02-2025
Black history museum fundraiser brings history to life
ASHLAND A fundraising dinner will feature local women portraying important figures in Black history.
Set for 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center, the Nuckolls Community Center and Black History Museum's Black History Month Fundraising dinner will feature portrayals of Mahalia Jackson by Angela Linthicum; Madame CJ Walker by Leah Branch; and Harriet Tubman by Kristen Martin.
The script was written by Belinda Brown, who wrote it in 2023 for a Juneteenth program by volunteers working with Ohio University Southern. Since then, participants have performed their historical figures several times.
Brown said the women being portrayed were united in their beliefs.
'The common denominator of these three historical figures was their faith, determination and their belief in themselves and their altruism — their sole goal in life was to reach back and forward to better their race in the midst of the prejudices and racial strife they had to face in this country at each of their lifetimes as women and African Americans,' Brown said, noting her favorite character of the three is Harriet Tubman.
'The other historical figures, as well as ourselves, are standing on her shoulders,' she said. 'She is part of the bridge we all have crossed over on to achieve our accomplishments. Her bravery and dedication towards the freedom from slavery is the cornerstone of African American legacy in America.'
Brown's daughter, Leah Branch, will portray Madam CJ Walker, a woman who was born into a family of former slaves but was able to achieve her dream: She created an extremely profitable line of hair care products for African Americans and advocated for racial equality, promoted education and supported Black woman in business.
'Unfortunately, her contributions to American history were not taught in my history classes in school, so I did not learn and truly appreciate her life story until my mom wrote the monologue and I portrayed her,' Branch said.
Much of her costume came right from her own closet, Branch said, with the addition of a faux fur wrap and headpiece that belonged to her grandmother and a few other items that were ordered. She said as many times as she's performed and as much as she practiced for the first performance, she's very comfortable in the role.
'I can truly say I've enjoyed each opportunity to tell her story,' Branch said. 'Her life and achievements serve as an inspiring example of resilience.'
The entire program is an important aspect of the fundraiser, Branch said, because it brings the spotlight to the struggle, contributions and resilience of Black individuals in our country's history.
'Many of these figures have had a profound impact on shaping culture, society, and the fight for civil rights, yet their stories are often underrepresented or overlooked,' she said. 'By bringing their histories to the forefront, we ensure a more complete and accurate understanding of American history, highlight the diverse voices that have shaped it, and inspire future generations.'
