Schomburg Center in Harlem marks 100 years of Black culture while facing challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, a prominent institution in Harlem, marks its centennial anniversary on Thursday with a significant exhibition that underscores both its historical importance and the ongoing challenges faced in preserving African American history. Originally opened on May 8, 1925, as the Division of Negro Literature, History, and Prints at the 135th Street Branch of the New York Public Library, the Schomburg Center has evolved into a vital repository of African American culture and heritage.

To commemorate this centennial milestone, the center is launching a new exhibition displaying iconic artifacts from its extensive collection, alongside the release of a special edition New York Public Library card. This celebration also serves as a moment for reflection among supporters who express increasing concern about the socio-political landscape increasingly defined by opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Throughout its history, the Schomburg Center has been a beacon for those seeking to engage with the diverse narratives encompassing the Black experience in America. This yearlong celebration includes various events, such as a summer festival and book giveaways featuring works aligned with the library’s themed reading lists. Notably, treasured pages from the writings of celebrated figures like Maya Angelou and Malcolm X will be part of the extensive exhibitions.

While the Schomburg celebrates its achievements, supporters emphasize the pressing need for continued commitment to preserving Black culture, particularly in an increasingly hostile political climate. They draw attention to actions taken by the current administration, which have, according to critics, sought to dismantle policies aimed at addressing historical injustices while attempting to rewrite narratives surrounding marginalized communities.

The institution’s foundation was largely shaped by pioneering figures such as Ernestine Rose and Catherine Latimer, the first Black librarian of the New York Public Library. Under their direction, a concerted effort was made to collect materials that documented the African American experience. Their collaborative initiatives included working closely with notable activists of the time, like James Weldon Johnson, to ensure that the library reflected the vibrancy of its surrounding community.

As the Schomburg Center enters its second century, director Joy Bivins highlights not only the importance of celebrating the legacy of the past but also the urgency of the present. The center serves as a critical resource not only for scholars but for all individuals seeking to understand and appreciate the rich narratives that shape American identity. The enduring mission of the Schomburg Center remains vital, emphasizing the importance of dedication to preserving Black history and culture for future generations.

The Schomburg Center’s 100th anniversary is not only a celebration of its storied past but also a call to action for preserving the narratives integral to understanding America’s cultural landscape.