Black Meetings and Tourism

Black Meetings & Tourism February/March 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 93 facility in the historic Brooklyn neigh- borhood – the center of Charlotte's Black community dating from the late 1800's until it was razed for urban renew- al in the 1960s. This facility will be a key component in Phase One of Charlotte's Cultural Arts Facilities Master Plan. The African American History Monument in Columbia, South Carolina is the first of its kind on any of the nation's statehouse grounds. It captures the rich history of African-Americans and their contributions to the state of South Carolina. Sculptor Ed Dwight of Denver, Co, modeled the monument after an African village built in the round. The center obelisk represents spirituality and is reminiscent of the pyr- amids in Egypt. At its base is a nine-foot bronzed ship icon with 336 enslaved Africans chained together in the bowels of the vessel for the trans-Atlantic voy- age from their motherland to America. New Orleans is known for its rich African-American history. For a small taste check out the historic Fauborg Treme neighborhood, the oldest urban African-American neighborhood in the country. Explore the area for the brilliant architecture as well as the great muse- ums and restaurants. Other attractions of interest include the New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture and History and the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. In Arkansas, a trip to the Central High School National Park Site in Little Rock is an essential. This nation- al landmark was the battleground for the Brown v. Board of Education deci- sion that rocked the nation and changed the course of African- American history and politics. The Southern United States is not the only place to explore African-American history. Throughout the country there are many compelling attractions that delve into our complex and diverse sto- ries. The awe-inspiring National Underground Freedom Center in Look closely at Charlotte and you'll discover a lot. A lot of passion for theater and dance. A lot of stirring performances to inspire creativity. And a lot of unique venues for offsite events. Find a lot more at 800-722-1994 or charlottesgotalot.com. Ch r te a lot 1/6/09 11:51:24 AM An old New Orleans Plantation Photo Credit: New OrleansCVB

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