Multimedia exhibit explores what it means to be Black in Alaska
Kristin Summerlin
907-474-6284
Dec. 11, 2023
Otis and Arlene McCormick, shown in their North Pole log home, are among the Interior residents profiled in “Black in Alaska: Inside Edition.” They homesteaded after the military brought them to Alaska from North Carolina in 1954. In their nearly 70 years here, they’ve survived fire and flood, raised a family and built a church.
A multimedia exhibit opening Dec. 16 at the University of Alaska Museum of the North examines the rich history and experience of Black life in Alaska through storytelling.
“Black in Alaska: Interior Edition” expands upon the portraits and vignettes showcased in the 2020-2023 online multimedia project blackinalaska.org. The Fairbanks exhibit incorporates additional artifacts and oral histories contributed by members of the Interior community, providing a nuanced perspective on African American history in Alaska, from the Gold Rush to construction of the Alaska Highway up to the present day.
The exhibit features interviews, photos and short videos profiling more than 40 Black Alaskans from Fairbanks and across the state, including people of diverse ages, genders and socioeconomic status. It aims to break down stereotypes and foster deeper connections between communities through storytelling.
In 2020, the Rasmuson Foundation engaged with Alaska Black leaders to address critical issues and improve collaboration with the Black community. This resulting dialogue highlighted the need for more positive media by and for Black Alaskans, leading to the creation of the multimedia project.
An essential component of the project is the involvement of a diverse advisory committee of Black Alaskans. The committee identified individuals to be profiled, and a creative team, equally diverse, conducted interviews to ensure a broad representation of experiences.
“Black in Alaska: Interior Edition” will be open to the public during regular museum hours through April 1, 2024.
The exhibit was made possible by support from Rasmuson Foundation, Alaska Airlines, Alaska Humanities Forum, Akela Space and The Alaska Community Foundation.
ADDITIONAL CONTACTS: Aelin Allegood, ajallegood@alaska.edu, 907-378-1205; Roger Topp, rmtopp@alaska.edu, 907-474-6985
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