This Week on American Black Journal:
The Wright Museum opens ‘Double ID’ exhibit from TV actress, art collector CCH Pounder
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has opened “Double ID,” a new art exhibit featuring 54 works from the private collection of acclaimed actress CCH Pounder. Running through Oct. 20, the exhibit showcases the CCH Pounder-Koné Collection and delves into the representation of Black men through the lens of W.E.B. Du Bois’ theory of “double consciousness,” which depicts the complex inner lives and identities of Black men.
The exhibit brings together an intergenerational group of artists from across the African diaspora, offering a complex portrayal of Black masculinity and challenging historical and cultural stereotypes through artistic expressions. Artists featured in the exhibit include Greg Bailey, Elizabeth Catlett, Louis Delsarte, Tewodros Hagos, Sesse Ngeselin-Elangwe, Fahamu Pecou, Ebony G. Patterson, Malick Sidibé, Alexi Torres, and Kehinde Wiley.
In addition to her notable film and television roles, including “NCIS: New Orleans” and “ER,” Pounder is celebrated for her extensive art collection and dedication to the arts. Her collection, comprising over 500 works, has been showcased in numerous exhibitions including “QUEEN: From the Collection of CCH Pounder,” which was on display at The Wright in 2020.
Host Stephen Henderson sits down with Pounder at The Wright to discuss the significance of the exhibit’s title and its thematic connection to Du Bois’ theory. She also shared insights into her passion for art and her own creative pursuits both on-screen and in visual arts.
Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion names new co-executive director, announces new name
For the first time in its 83-year history, the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion has an African American leader. Longtime community organizer and author Yusef Bunchy Shakur has been named co-executive director of the nonprofit organization. He will serve alongside Co-Executive Director Steve Spreitzer.
Shakur is well-known for his memoir, “The Window 2 My Soul,” which recounts his transformation from a troubled youth involved in gang activity in Detroit to a dedicated community leader. His work includes initiatives like the annual Restoring the Neighbor Back to the Hood Backpack Giveaway, which has provided over 6,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to Detroit youth over the past decade.
The nonprofit will also change its name to the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities this summer to better reflect its mission. Shakur’s appointment and the name change signify a renewed focus on addressing systemic issues and promoting social change. His recent academic achievement, earning a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Social Change, underscores his dedication to these causes.
Host Stephen Henderson and Shakur discuss his new role and the significance of the organization’s name change. Plus, Shakur talks about how his recent academic achievement, earning a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Social Change, will help him further the nonprofit’s work.
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Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.
