Discovering amistad will evaluate, revitalize, and expand the durability and interpretive impact of its exhibits and educational programming

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded Discovering Amistad $120,185 on September 1, 2026, under the Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program (CFDA 45.309) to evaluate, revitalize, and expand the durability and interpretive impact of its exhibits and educational programming.

The project will develop accessible all-weather multimedia interpretive exhibitions and companion educational resources that extend learning beyond narrated tours and increase year-round accessibility to the historic ship and site. Activities include consulting with national humanities scholars, museum professionals, and cultural leaders with expertise in interpreting African American history. The team will recruit a graduate-level intern to support research, writing, exhibit content, and curriculum development while receiving mentorship and hands-on training. The exhibitions are designed to prompt reflection, expand perspectives, and encourage dialogue through curated content and facilitated courageous conversations. Deliverables include upgraded display panels, interactive dockside and shipboard exhibits, and renewed curriculum for grades 8–12. The project outcome will reduce geographic barriers to participation and increase statewide access by integrating shipboard, dockside, classroom, and digital experiences.

Performance takes place in New Haven, Connecticut. The period of performance runs from the program start date of July 1, 2025, through January 31, 2028.

Project activities include developing accessible all-weather multimedia interpretive exhibitions and companion educational resources that extend learning beyond the narrated tour and increase year-round accessibility. Project planning and development activities will involve consulting with national humanities scholars, museum professionals, and cultural leaders with expertise in interpreting african american history. The team will also recruit a graduate-level intern to support research and writing as well as contribute to exhibit content and curriculum development, while gaining mentorship and hands-on training. The exhibitions are designed to prompt reflection, expand perspectives, and encourage dialogue through thoughtfully curated content and facilitated courageous conversations. The outcome of the project activities will be reduced geographic barriers to participation and increased statewide access by integrating shipboard, dockside, classroom, and digital experiences with upgraded display panels, the addition of interactive dockside and shipboard exhibits, and a renewed curriculum for grades 8-12.