Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger visited the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit on Feb. 8, receiving a guided tour from historian Jonathan Jones about the experience and history of African Americans. (Photos by Valaurian Waller | Special to Detroit Catholic)
Detroit Museum: A Beacon of African American Heritage
DETROIT — On February 8, Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger deepened his understanding of the Archdiocese by visiting the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, nestled near Midtown Detroit. This visit was not just a routine engagement; it was a heartfelt exploration of the complex and rich narrative that defines African American history.
Accompanied by Vickie Figueroa, the associate director for cultural ministries and Black Catholic ministry coordinator, along with historian Jonathan Jones, the archbishop embarked on a journey through time, guided by the museum’s vast trove of artifacts and narratives.
Since its move to its current location in 1997, this groundbreaking museum has stood as a monument to African American heritage, claiming the title as “the world’s largest institution dedicated to the African American experience.” Its origins stretch back to the 1960s, specifically to the establishment of the International Afro-American Museum in 1965 — a modest ambition that rapidly evolved into a powerful cultural force.
The museum now boasts over 30,000 items, ranging from ancient African artifacts to civil rights documents, collectively charting the myriad experiences of African Americans from ancient civilizations to present-day narratives. Each piece tells a story — of struggle, resilience, and indomitable spirit.
During the tour, Jonathan Jones passionately shared insights into the significant exhibits that illustrated the profound impact of African culture on global history. He meticulously described how the ancient Nubian and Egyptian civilizations laid the groundwork for future progress, only to be interrupted by the tragic events of the trans-Atlantic slave trade that reshaped the very fabric of American society.
Archbishop Weisenburger recalled moments of deep reflection concerning the inhumane conditions slaves endured, especially when viewing the chilling replica of dungeons where captured Africans were held before being transported across the ocean. “The most painful part of the tour, which was also the most moving part, was seeing what it would be like for someone in the belly of a ship, packed in literally like sardines, body to body,” he remarked. “I doubt I would have survived. Period.”
The visit significantly affected him, illuminating how the historical pain of the African slave trade continues to echo in contemporary society. In his words, “The visit to the museum was a reminder of the pain of our history and how that pain, especially through racism, lingers in our world today.”
This somber yet enlightening atmosphere is emblematic of the museum’s mission: to educate and promote understanding through storytelling. Jones emphasized the critical role the museum plays, particularly during Black History Month, in sharing the narratives that uplift and inform the community. “It means everything for (the archbishop) to take time out of his day, the day we set aside as the Sabbath, to take the time to show us how these issues we are studying from the past are connected to today,” Jones explained.
The museum’s exhibits delve into the intricate relationships between faith, culture, and race. They reveal the dichotomy of Christian churches — times when they stood against the injustices of slavery and racism and moments when they inadvertently upheld oppressive institutions. “There’s God’s perfected will, and there’s God’s permissive will — what is allowed to happen but is not necessarily His will,” Jones articulated, highlighting the complexities inherent in faith and morality.
Through these narratives, visitors are encouraged to reflect on broader societal dynamics, urging them to forge deeper connections with both history and the present. “Everything’s about learning, about growing, and about deepening relationships,” Jones emphasized.
For Archbishop Weisenburger, the experience at the Charles H. Wright Museum was not merely an exploration of the past; it served as a poignant reminder of ongoing struggles against racism and a call to deepen compassion and understanding in today’s society.
