Meeting Lonnie Bunch with The Association of African American Museums

Pull up a chair and let me tell you about the time I had a seat at the table with Lonnie Bunch.

I have been working with the Executive Director of The Association for African American Museums for a few months and when she mentioned this opportunity I was so excited! I don’t pride myself to be a history buff but I did recognize the name Lonnie Bunch and was aware of his impact in the public historical realm.

When she mentioned that we would be intimately meeting in his office in the Smithsonian Castle I literally squealed with excitement because I had just recently heard that they were shutting down the castle for restorations and it would not be open to the public until 2028.

 So on a perfect spring day, I had the privilege of photographing Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, Immediate Past-President of the Association African American Museums, LaNesha DeBardelaben, and Executive Director of the Association African American Museums, Dr. Vedet Coleman-Robinson. He presented us all with a signed copy of his book “A Fool’s Errand”, a deeply personal tale of the triumphs and challenges of bringing the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture to life. LaNesha and Vedet presented him with the Dr. John E Fleming Award from AAAM.

Although I don't have any pictures of myself with these amazing individuals, the memory of sitting at a table with them will remain fresh in my memory for a lifetime. It was an incredible opportunity to witness history in the making and to capture the essence of such a significant moment. I am humbled by the experience and so grateful for the chance to be a part of it.

Moreover, I am excited about the prospect of creating with these historians in the future.

I believe this is just the beginning of something great, and I am eager to see what unfolds. Thank you for allowing me to share this experience with you.

Love Deeply,
Megan Pitts