Explore and Experience Arlington’s African American Heritage
From late 2022 through 2023, the Arlington Convention and Visitors Service (a division within Arlington County’s economic development department) brought…
African American Heritage & History
From the early 1600s to the 21st century, the community we can now call Arlington, Virginia has held a truly unique place in history and in the journey of the African American families who have made it their home. It is a story of contrasts and contradictions, of pain, pride, hope and triumph. And its complexity continues to be revealed in the present day.
TRUTH. SOUL. HEART. RESILIENCE.
We invite you to explore and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black culture and life that have made Arlington the diverse and vibrant community that it is today. As you discover the integral role African Americans have played in Arlington's formation and evolution, you are sure to be inspired to learn more. From the Freedman's Village that thrived in Arlington throughout the Civil War - as neighboring forts defended the nation's capital - to the courage and progress of school integrations and lunch-counter sit-ins during the Civil Rights movement, local heroes have come together in Arlington to dismantle barriers and move toward a brighter future.
Truth. Respect. Courage. Resilience. Heart. Soul. These are the themes of Arlington's African American community and its history. It has not been an easy history, but it's honest telling can inspire candid conversation, deeper understanding, and the desire to dig more deeply for unvarnished truth.
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Arlington Spotlights: Portia Clark
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Arlington Spotlights: Saundra Green
Saundra Green is a lifelong resident of Arlington and a former employee of Arlington County’s Parks and Recreation department. Saundra’s…
Arlington Spotlights
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Experience Arlington’s Black-Owned Businesses
Arlington is known for its global dining scene and diverse community. Explore Arlington's neighborhoods and visit these Black-owned eateries and…
The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington
Learn about the unique chapter of Black history and the abolition of slavery in Northern Virginia at the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington.
Honor Dr. King’s Legacy in the Capital Region
The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was the embodiment of America's civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination…