The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority celebrates African American in the Arts this Black History Month! Black History Month in 2024 provides an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable contributions of African Americans to the arts. 

Throughout history, African American artists have played a pivotal role in shaping and enriching various artistic forms. In music, legends like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Miles Davis have not only left an indelible mark on jazz but have influenced the entire music landscape. The visual arts have been graced by visionaries such as Jacob Lawrence and Kara Walker, who have used their creativity to convey powerful narratives and challenge societal norms. In literature, luminaries like Toni Morrison and Langston Hughes have crafted words that resonate with profound insight and emotion. The performing arts have been elevated by performers like Sidney Poitier and Viola Davis, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. 

This Black History Month, it is essential to celebrate the enduring impact of African Americans in the arts, acknowledging their role in shaping culture and fostering a more inclusive creative landscape.

 
Check out what’s happening at Reagan National this month: 

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Reagan National Airport
About the Airport
jazz saxophonist Merlon Devine
Tuesday, Feb 13: Jazz Saxophonist Merlon Devine at DCA

Come enjoy the vibrant music from jazz saxophonist Merlon Devine on Tuesday, February 13, from 1-4 p.m. at DCA. 

2024 DCA Youth Art Walk
Thursday, Feb 15: DCA Youth Art Walk

Our Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Impact will introduce new artwork as part of Black History Month in the Youth Art Walk at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The curated collection will highlight the creativity of students from DC area schools.

In celebration of this year’s theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” and in collaboration with The Links, Incorporated and DC Public Schools, the DCA Youth Art Walk will honor the rich cultural contributions of young African Americans in various art forms.

Student artists are provided a platform to showcase their work and be recognized for their achievements. With 60 unique works from students across various grade levels, the Youth Art Walk exhibit will offer a glimpse into the diverse perspectives and artistic visions of the next generation of creatives.

  • Date: Thursday, February 15, 2024
  • Time: 5:30pm
  • Location: DCA, Terminital 1, Historic Lobby
  • Special Performance: In addition to recognizing visual arts, we will include a broader spectrum of artistic expressions, including music and dance. A performance by the Sousa Middle School hip-hop dance troupe will showcase the dynamic energy and creativity of young artists from DC Public Schools.
     
Abingdon Plantation
History at Reagan National Airport

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is committed to preserving history! Ronald Reagan National Airport sits on the historical site known as the Abingdon Plantation.  

In 1998, a series of interpretive panels was installed here at the Abingdon Plantation site. They focused on the lives of the plantation owners, ensuring their visibility within the historical record and to visitors. However, for over 100 years prior to the Civil War, most of the people living and working at this site were enslaved Africans and African Americans. Archaeology and historical research are now ensuring that the lives and contributions of these women, men and children are visible and commemorated.

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