75-Foot Black History Tribute To Be Unveiled In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, NJ — A 75-foot Black History Month walk-through exhibit is set to be unveiled on Division Street in Somerville next week.

"Black history is American history," said Natalie Pineiro, executive director of the Downtown Somerville Alliance (DSA). "In a town as diverse as Somerville, it's only fitting that we celebrate the rich contributions of Black America on such a grand scale."

The tribute to Black Innovation pays homage to important figures in history including African American inventors, abolitionists, leaders and scholars. It also recognizes those who, on a local scale, have made an impact on the community.

The outdoor exhibit is the first-ever large-scale celebration of Black History in the District and consists of a series of mounted panels, spanning 75-feet in length, that create a walkable
"tunnel".

Lighting on the interior walls will make the exhibit available during the day and night-time hours. The exhibit will be on display through March 5.

The exhibit is part of the DSA's plan to make diversity and inclusion a top priority for the organization. In 2019, the Alliance sponsored the first-ever Hispanic Heritage Celebration in downtown Somerville, and in 2020 they celebrated PRIDE Month with a virtual celebration in connection with the RWJBH Babs Siperstien PROUD Center.

"We look forward to continuing to recognize and celebrate the tapestry of cultures and ethnicities that make up our community and will be making greater strides to highlight diversity in the near future," Pineiro said.

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