By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer
The Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum has received a crucial $25,000 grant from Sierra Health Foundation, ensuring continuation of its nearly 30-year mission to preserve and celebrate African American history and culture.
The museum announced in October that it was facing financial challenges and required urgent funding to sustain its programs and services. This grant offers a lifeline, enabling the museum to maintain critical operations, including its cultural programming, exhibits, and outreach initiatives.
The funding will support programs such as the Youth Document Program, which equips young people with personal and professional skills, and exhibits highlighting untold stories of Black cowboys, inventors, women, and other historical figures. The museum also has been a hub for community celebrations, including annual Kwanzaa, MLK’s birthday, and Black History Month events.
“For nearly 30 years, we’ve been part of the Sacramento community, and we’re honored when the community shows up for us.” said Shonna McDaniels, the museum’s founder and executive director.
Chet P. Hewitt, president and CEO of Sierra Health Foundation, emphasized the museum’s importance: “The Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum shines a light on the country’s historical and enduring wrongs, our shared progress, and the legacy of those who have resisted, endured, and thrived. For our region to truly honor its diversity and commitment to an inclusive future, it’s vital that we invest in institutions like this one.”While the grant provides significant support, the museum’s GoFundMe campaign has raised only a little more than $5,000 of its $100,000 goal, and community contributions remain essential to secure its long-term future. Learn more at sojoartsmuseum.org.