Charleston’s New International African American Museum with CEO Dr. Tonya Matthews

This week, Melissa is joined by Dr. Tonya Matthews, an esteemed scholar and advocate for cultural preservation. Dr. Matthews serves as the President & CEO of the International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, South Carolina. With her deep understanding of African American history and her passion for community engagement, she sheds light on the museum's mission and the stories it aims to tell.

Our conversation delves into Dr. Matthews background, the founding of the International African American Museum, its significance, and it grand opening later this month! Dr. Matthews shares the vision behind the museum's creation, which serves as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. She highlights the museum's commitment to preserving and sharing stories that have often been overlooked or marginalized.

Melissa also provides a vital travel hack this week: Navigating Airlines this Summer! A must listen for anyone taking to the skies over the next couple months.

If you want more information on visiting the International African American Museum, please see below:

Tickets:

• Purchase tickets in advance of a visit at IAAMuseum.org
• IAAM offers timed-entry tickets where you can reserve an entry-window 6-8 months in advance
• Day-of-tickets are available at the in-person box office starting at 10am, however the supply is limited
• Tickets are available for adults, children (under 6), youth (6-16), seniors (62+) and military (with ID)
• Allow 1.5-2 hrs to view the museum from start to finish
• Residents of South Carolina are eligible for discounted ticket prices
• Members receive free entry to the museum
• IAAM is closed Monday and open Tuesday-Sunday 10am to 5pm

Grand Opening Events:

• Thursday, June 22nd at 6pm: Worship service at Morris Brown AME, a historic African American church
• Saturday, June 24th at 10am: Dedication Ceremony at multiple sites throughout Charleston. Dr. Tonya recommends attending the ceremony at Marion Square
• Opening Gala
• For questions regarding grand opening events, contact donorservices@iaamuseum.org

IAAM is home to 12 permanent exhibitions, including 9 galleries and one Special Exhibitions Gallery which currently holds the Smithsonian Museum’s Men of Change: Power. Triumph. Truth. You can also visit the Center for Family History to trace back your family’s origin.

Visit IAAMuseum.org for more details about the exhibitions, galleries, and workshops.

For dining recommendations, Dr. Tonya says Hannibal's Kitchen downtown and Gillie's Seafood on James Island are classic restaurants.

As for dishes, Dr. Tonya recommends getting the shrimp and grits while in town. It’s a staple in Charleston seen throughout restaurants and homes. She also recommends trying the oysters.