Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum

06/06/2026

🎶 African American Music Appreciation Month | Song of the Week 🎶

This week, we're celebrating African American Music Appreciation Month by highlighting a song that has left a lasting impact on music and culture:

🎵 "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke
Listen here: https://youtu.be/1oZ6Z9xRxo8?si=mjCUXUsBtQlHVpxN

Released in 1964, this powerful anthem became a symbol of hope, resilience, and progress during the Civil Rights Movement. Its message continues to resonate today, reminding us of music's ability to inspire change and bring people together.

💡 Why we chose it:

A timeless masterpiece of soul music
A defining song of the Civil Rights era
An enduring example of the influence of African American artists on American music and culture

Take a moment this week to listen, reflect, and celebrate the countless African American musicians whose creativity and innovation have shaped the soundtrack of our lives.

🎧 Song of the Week: "A Change Is Gonna Come"

Provided to YouTube by Universal Music GroupA Change Is Gonna Come · Sam CookeAin't That Good News℗ 2015 ABKCO Music & Records, Inc.Released on: 2024-06-21Co...

06/05/2026

Happy Pride Month! 🌈

This month, we celebrate the courage, resilience, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals whose stories have shaped our communities and our nation. Among them is Ruth C. Ellis, a Springfield, Illinois native who became one of the oldest openly le***an women in the United States, living to the age of 101.

Born in Springfield in 1899, Ellis witnessed the Springfield Race Riot of 1908 as a child and grew up amid both racial injustice and family support. Open about her identity from a young age, she went on to become a beloved advocate and community figure whose life reminds us of the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and belonging.

As we honor Pride Month, we also recognize the legacy of Black LGBTQ+ trailblazers like Ruth Ellis, whose journey reflects the rich and diverse history of both Springfield and the broader fight for equality.

05/26/2026

Final week to experience the remarkable Lucy McWorter dress, handcrafted by Mary Helen Yokem. This extraordinary piece will remain on display through Saturday, May 30.

Visitors are also encouraged to view the accompanying documentary, which explores both the meticulous construction of the dress and the history of the McWorter family. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Illinois State Museum for the opportunity to showcase this important work, and to Mary Helen Yokem for her continued support of AAHM.

05/23/2026

🌥️ It’s a cloudy day, but you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Join us today for meaningful community conversations centered around Mental Health Awareness 💚

Come connect, share, listen, and support one another in a safe and welcoming space. Every conversation matters, and every voice is valued.

🗣️ Let’s talk about healing, hope, and mental wellness together.
📍 Everyone is welcome
💚 Because mental health matters every day

05/22/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we invite the community to join us for an important conversation about mental health, wellness, and access to support services.

This special Community Conversation will bring together local mental health organizations and advocates, including NAMI Illinois, Springfield Memorial Hospital, and Rock for Mental Health, to discuss available resources, community needs, reducing stigma, and how we can support one another through education, awareness, and compassion.

Together, we will explore:
• Mental health resources and services available in our community
• Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health
• Supporting youth, families, and caregivers
• Building stronger partnerships for community wellness

Whether you are seeking information, support, or simply want to learn more, all are welcome to attend and participate in this meaningful discussion.

Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: 2 PM
Location: 1440 Monument Avenue, Springfield, IL 62702

Let’s come together to strengthen awareness, encourage dialogue, and promote healing in our community during Mental Health Awareness Month.

05/10/2026

Happy Mother's Day!

Today, we celebrate and honor the incredible individuals who have nurtured, loved, and guided us through life's journey. It's a day to express our gratitude and appreciation for all the sacrifices and endless love they offer. Whether it's through a heartfelt card, a bouquet of flowers, or simply spending quality time together, let's make sure to show them how cherished they truly are. Here's to all the amazing mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers out there, you are loved beyond words!

05/08/2026

Happy Mother’s Day from the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum 🌹

Join us this Saturday as we celebrate the mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers who help preserve the stories that shape our lives and communities.

Visitors will receive a complimentary single rose stem while supplies last. We look forward to welcoming you for a day of history, reflection, and appreciation.

04/25/2026

📢 Join Us Today for Community Conversations!

Our community voices matter and this is your chance to be heard.

We’re bringing together local organizations Black Lives Matter SPI, Clean Slate Advocates, and Primed for Life, to talk about real impact and what’s next for our community. More importantly, this conversation is about you; your experiences, your ideas, and how you can get involved.

✨ Learn what’s being done
✨ Share what matters to you
✨ Find ways to take action

Whether you want to listen, speak up, or find ways to get involved, this space is for you.

🗓 Today, April 25, 2026
📍 AAHM (1440 Monument Avenue, Springfield, IL 62702)
⏰ 2 PM

Come be part of the conversation and the change!

04/24/2026

Happy World Book Day! 📚✨

There’s no better time to get lost in a great story, discover a new favorite author, or revisit a classic you love. Whether you’re into thrillers, romance, fantasy, or nonfiction, there’s a book waiting just for you.

Stop by our bookstore and explore something new. We’d love to help you find your next read!

🌟 Staff Picks:
• Used Books (We have a great selection for under three dollars!)
• The Man Who Stood Up to Be Seated by Roland W. Burris
• Sundown Town by Kevin Corley & Douglas E. King

📖 Featured Titles:
• 100 Things to Do in Springfield Before You Die by Penny Zimmerman-Wills
• Madame CJ Walker Builds a Business
•Free Joe: A Story of Faith, Love and Perseverance by Earnest Edward Lacey

Tell us in the comments—what are you reading today?