The Return of the Virtual Black History Museum

In recognition of Black History Month, our “Made in Second Life” series explores the newly-reopened Virtual Black History Museum in SL!

Open through late March, this interactive educational experience invites attendees to explore the timeline of African-American history from the heartaches to the victories in a park-like and welcoming environment.

At the heart of the museum is a new exhibit that spotlights the amazing women that helped shape African-American history in the US.

“There’s a focus on women in Black history and telling some of the stories of people that don’t really make it into the history books,” says curator Abrianna Oceanside.”We talk about Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks, but we don’t really talk about some of the [other] names that we don’t even recognize.”

That’s why the Museum goes deeper in its exhibition to amplify awareness of several lesser-known historical figures including civil rights activists Amelia Boynton Robinson, Daisy Bates, and Martha P. Johnson.

“To be able to walk through, observe and just be able to have a more immersed experience is more effective than just going to a website and reading the information,” says Oceanside. “I’m hoping to foster a place where there can be a dialogue.”

While some of the subject matter in the museum can be unsettling, Oceanside says that she hopes the experience will help enlighten and educate attendees.

“There are a lot of difficult discussions and I’m OK with uncomfortable because I believe that is a big part of what helps us grow as people,” she says. “I’ve had some really interesting discussions with people whose perspectives shifted a little bit…and sometimes that little shift makes a big difference in the world.”

To learn more about the Black History Museum, watch the video or visit it in Second Life.

Credits:
Video Production: Draxtor Despres
Logo: Marianne McCann

Have a great week From the staff of Zoha Islands and Fruit Islands