In celebration of Black History Month, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (SETLC) presents the “SETLC Blacks-in-Wax Museum—From Royalty to Slavery to Freedom and Beyond…” The interactive “wax” exhibit will primarily feature scholars from the SETLC and a handful of parents portraying over 55 public figures of African American history, including DC Mayor Adrian M. Fenty.
“Once again the SETLC is leading the charge in offering creative and innovative educational programming to our District residents,” said Clark E. Ray, director of DPR. “This special presentation, primarily featuring DPR youth scholars, will invigorate attendees with a more comprehensive understanding of the rich legacy of African Americans and a greater sense of possibility.”
Since its first presentation in 2007, the SETLC Blacks-in-Wax Black History Month Special Presentation has grown from being housed in a solitary classroom to now being showcased in the educational wing of the facility. DPR-SETLC Scholars will also depict such national public figures as poet/author Maya Angelou, Chair and President Emerita of the National Council of Negro Women Dr. Dorothy Height, President/Founder of the Children’s Defense Fund Marian Wright Edelman, 1960s civil rights movement leader Malcolm X, and 2008 presidential candidate Barack Obama. Local dignitaries such as former Councilmember Harry Thomas, Sr. (father of Ward 5 Councilmember Harry “Tommy” Thomas, Jr.) and Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry will also be depicted.
Over 400 people are expected to attend the walk-through interactive presentation, with confirmed attendance including Dr. Height, the Honorable Alexis Herman and best-selling author Michael Eric Dyson.
For more information on the SETLC Blacks-in-Wax Museum, or any of the outstanding services offered at SETLC, contact (202) 645-6241.
When:
Thursday, February 28
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony (6 pm)
Where:
Southeast Tennis and Learning Center
701 Mississippi Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20032
Visuals and Interview Opportunities:
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Cora Masters Barry, President, Recreation Wish List
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Clark E. Ray, Director, DC Parks and Recreation
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Dr. Dorothy Height, Chair/President Emerita, National Council of Negro Women
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Councilmember Marion Barry, Ward 8, (who is being depicted)
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Councilmember Harry “Tommy” Thomas, Jr., Ward 5 (whose father, former Councilmember Harry Thomas, Sr. is being depicted)
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Michael Eric Dyson, bestselling author
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Over fifty five (55) DPR Youth Scholars portraying African American Historical Figures.
Media Contact: MosesAlexander Greene: (202) 673-7684