Commission would study creation of Georgia-owned African-American museum
The Georgia Senate approved a measure that would create a commission to study the creation of the state’s first public museum dedicated to African-American history.
State Sen. Lester Jackson, D-Savannah, said the 20-member commission would study how best to collect and display the state's rich black history.
There are specialized museums, such as the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and private museums, including the Apex Museum, but none that tell the full history of African Americans in Georgia.
Senate Bill 411 would task the commission with creating a recommendation on how best to create a Museum of Georgia African-American History and Culture, including its location and a plan for fundraising efforts.
The chamber also is considering Senate Resolution 503, which would create a Senate study committee to do similar work of the commission.
Jackson said if a museum is built, he believes it will draw visitors from not only Georgia, but across the country.
The measure now goes to the House for its consideration.
About the Author
Maya T. Prabhu covers the Georgia Senate and statewide issues as a government reporter for The AJC. Born in Queens, New York, and raised in northern Virginia, Maya attended Spelman College and then the University of Maryland for a master's degree. She writes about social issues, the criminal justice system and legislative politics.
