International African American Museum Supported by Blackbaud!

International African American Museum Supported by Blackbaud! 

By Gullah Gee Chee Nation

"We're investing in the International African American Museum (@IAAMuseum) because we believe all people deserve the opportunity to know their heritage." Stated Mike Gianoni of Blackbaud as they donated $1 Million to the International African American Museum (IAAM) which is to be built at Gasden's Wharf along the Charleston Harbor.

The site of the coming museum is also the location of the Gullah/Geechee Nation International Music & Movement Festival™'s "Gullah/Geechee Reunion Day" each time that the festival takes place in Charleston, SC.  The drums will sound at Noon in celebration of the contributions to this project and a libation will be poured honoring all of the African ancestors that were held in bondage at Gasden's Wharf on Saturday, August 6, 2016.  The international story of the Gullah/Geechee people is told by natives of the Gullah/Geechee Nation each year during the festival and IAAM has been promoted during the festival for the past decade.

Under the leadership of President and CEO Michael B. Moore, great-great grandson of the Gullah Statesman, Robert Smalls, IAAM will be a new museum of African-American history that aims to re-center South Carolina’s place in global history and honor the largely overlooked history of the African-American community. The museum will connect visitors to their ancestors, demonstrating how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development in the nation and beyond.

“Blackbaud’s significant gift helps us move closer to our fundraising goal and is a testament to the support the International African American Museum project is receiving by South Carolina’s most influential, purpose-focused companies, said Michael B. Moore, President and CEO of IAAM. “We’re overwhelmed by Blackbaud’s generosity and enthusiasm; especially the employees who are already rolling up their sleeves to help by sharing best practices of the arts and culture community, helping us leverage the full power of technology to create a special experience for visitors, and offering support through volunteerism.”

Blackbaud’s investment will support the Digital Media Lab which will allow visitors to be part of a shared experience; inside the museum or from anywhere in the world on their computers or mobile devices. “This connectivity showcases how technology can help break down barriers, and proves there are no limits to the experience the IAAM can offer,” said Mike Gianoni, President and CEO of Blackbaud. “We are incredibly moved to be a part of this endeavor and it’s a privilege for our company to help to bring a sense of connection and identity for those wishing to find answers and complete their own personal stories. I invite other companies to join us in investing to bring this important museum to life.”

More than half of the $75 Million for the International African American Museum has been raised.  To contribute to the project, please make a donation at www.iaamuseum.org.