In the vast landscape of American history, there are often overlooked stories, untold narratives, and voices waiting to be heard. Amidst this rich mosaic of experiences lie the vital stories of Black Americans—stories of resilience, triumph, and cultural heritage. Dr. Deborah Johnson-Simon emerges as a guiding light, dedicating over three decades to ensuring that these narratives remain etched in the annals of time.
Dr. Johnson-Simon’s journey commenced with an unyielding passion for anthropology and museum studies, culminating in degrees from esteemed institutions such as Arizona State University and the University of Florida. Her academic pursuits laid the foundation for a remarkable career devoted to the preservation of African descendant museums across various states, from Arizona to Georgia.
Reflecting on her extensive research and teaching experience, Dr. Johnson-Simon shares, “Being a museum anthropologist, most people kind of look at me and say, ‘What in the world? How do you do it? Does anybody care?’ And once I start to talk about the fact that even children can get excited about doing this, it takes on a different flavor.”
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Johnson-Simon’s research has traversed continents, from the shores of Belize to the bustling streets of Ghana and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Her tireless efforts have not only enriched academic discourse but have also highlighted the global significance of preserving Black history.
“I think the most important thing for me is that we all remember that museums aren’t always those formal buildings. Museums are us, museums are people,” Dr. Johnson-Simon emphasizes. “We leave a legacy. And I want you to think about what is the legacy that you’re leaving because somebody has to come along and they won’t know that story if you don’t tell them.”
But Dr. Johnson-Simon’s impact transcends academia. As a prolific author, her books such as “Cultural Keepers Arizona” and “Cultural Keepers-Florida” serve as invaluable resources for understanding the rich mosaic of Black culture and heritage. Her commitment to education is evident in her children’s books, which not only entertain but also instill a sense of pride and curiosity about museums in young minds.
Speaking about the importance of passing down cultural traditions, Dr. Johnson-Simon shares, “Tell your story through your stuff. Find those things. If mama did this thing and you are doing it and you don’t know about it, write it down so that when your grandchild or your great-grandbaby comes along, they don’t have to figure it out.”
Yet, perhaps Dr. Johnson-Simon’s most profound impact lies in her advocacy for Black museums and grassroots cultural initiatives. She understands that museums are not just brick-and-mortar institutions but living, breathing repositories of history and culture. Through her work, she has documented countless grassroots museums, from family collections in private homes to community spaces like the Kiah Museum in Savannah, Georgia.
The story of the Kiah Museum is a testament to Dr. Johnson-Simon’s unwavering dedication to preserving Black history. “It wasn’t a museum as this colonial concept of what a museum is. She had her own vision and she called her museum in Savannah, and the one that she did to honor her mother in Baltimore, museums for the masses, meaning all of those who would normally not be welcome or appreciated,” Dr. Johnson-Simon reflects.
Dr. Johnson-Simon’s message is clear: Black history is not confined to textbooks or museum walls—it is woven into the fabric of everyday life. As we navigate the complexities of the present, let us heed her call to embrace our history, preserve our heritage, and ensure that future generations inherit some world rich in the stories of those who came before us.
