Last weekend, I had the privilege of photographing a historic moment on behalf of the Association of African American Museums (AAAM) at the 110th Annual ASALH Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. It was a gathering rich with wisdom, reflection, and pride — a space where scholars, museum leaders, and cultural advocates came together to celebrate the enduring power of Black history.
During the event, AAAM’s President and CEO, Dr. Vedet Coleman-Robinson, was recognized by the ASALH Council with the Special Recognition Award for her tireless advocacy on behalf of Black museums nationwide. Her words during the ceremony still echo in my mind:
“This recognition is a collective honor that belongs to the many current and former AAAM staff and board members who have worked tirelessly to ensure our history is preserved, celebrated, and never silenced. Our field has been assaulted, and as we approach milestone years of ASALH and 250 years of this nation, we are reminded that this land holds our stories, and that telling the truth of African American history is an act of patriotism.”
Dr. Coleman-Robinson dedicated her award to Dr. Lucious Edwards, Dr. John E. Fleming, and Fath Davis Ruffins, paying homage to those whose scholarship and leadership have paved the way for generations.
In attendance were esteemed members of AAAM’s leadership, all gathered in a powerful testament to unity, progress, and shared purpose.
As a Black woman photographer, it was deeply moving to witness this moment in person. Standing in that room, surrounded by so many brilliant minds and visionary leaders, felt like being part of living history — a continuation of the very legacy I’ve committed my lens to preserving.
The 110th ASALH Conference was a reminder of why documenting our history matters: because every image, every gathering, every recognition is a chapter in the greater story of resilience and excellence that defines our people.
It was an honor to photograph this event for AAAM and to bear witness to the beauty of Black leadership, scholarship, and storytelling in action.
Megan Pitts
Megapixles Media
