Deep Roots

In Portsmouth

Black History Month has always been an important celebration in Portsmouth, where African Americans have made significant contributions from early American days to present. Their influences can be traced from the legendary James Armistead Lafayette during the Revolutionary War to the Black Brigades in the Civil War to the Tuskegee Airmen in WWII, through segregation, the fight for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr., and right up through to the present day.

Woman smiling

It's
Now.

Not Just One Month.

The City of Portsmouth Museums has made continuing this tradition part of its mission, with a commitment to educate everyone of the accomplishments that African Americans in Portsmouth have achieved, the hardships some endured, and the continuing contributions they still make for our city, state and great nation.

Black History Now

So important are these contributions in Portsmouth that the City has dedicated itself to presenting “Black History Now” programming. These special events offer an amazing lineup of activities, workshops, guided discussions, scholar presentations and much more, and will better educate everyone of the great contributions African Americans have made throughout history.

Young girl

Pride

Perseverance &

Portsmouth Riverfront

Art is
Revolutionary

Celebrating Portsmouth’s Artists

Join us for Portsmouth’s celebration of Black excellence during this year’s Art is Revolutionary series, where artists come together in Portsmouth to spark social transformation through food, music, and more.

Art Is Revolutionary

HOME Studios logo

Museums and Tourism Administration
521 Middle St., Portsmouth, VA 23704 | 757-393-8983