The fledgling African American Cultural Experiences Complex (AACEC) held its inaugural awards luncheon and ceremony on July 12 at the Rock Eagle 4H Center.
Seating was at a premium as approximately 300 attendees filled the hall, where more than two dozen individuals, both living and deceased, were recognized with personalized plaques, handed out by AACEC Chairperson George Gary Andrews and City of Eatonton Mayor John Reid, who also serves as AACEC vice chairperson.
Also attending were AACEC board members Annie Bishop (treasurer), Juanita Dixon (secretary), Eatonton Councilmember Janie Reid (assistant secretary), and Charles Hurt (director).
Following Mayor Reid’s welcoming address, Councilmember Reid introduced past U.S.
Senate candidate and former DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond is the featured speaker.
The Sadler Sisters, who later accepted an AACEC award on behalf of their mother, Hennie, sang in harmony on two occasions, and Pastor Michael Brown from God of Peace Ministries provided the closing prayer.
According to the extensive event program that detailed each of 26 honorees’ accomplishments and contributions, the AACEC “is dedicated to collecting, preserving, educating, and celebrating the rich and diverse histories, cultural traditions, and contributions of African Americans in Putnam County, the Georgia Black Belt, and beyond.”
Mayor Reid later explained this event was just the first of many planned to support the creation and establishment of a dedicated center to showcase and celebrate Black history and African American culture, specifically in Eatonton- Putnam County, but also throughout Georgia and other states from the 1600s to the present time.
He added that the AACEC will eventually include an interactive museum presenting African American stories and accomplishments, along with archival storage of relevant ancestral narratives, oral histories, artifacts, and archival materials.
The Complex will also feature an event space, rotating exhibitions, educational programs for school visits, and community collaborations and events, including performances, festivals, academic talks, and public art initiatives, among other activities and presentations.
Mayor Reid said he encourages anyone interested in getting involved or donating to support the creation and building of the African American Cultural Experiences Complex to contact one of the board members. He added that more detailed contact information will be available soon.