The Tuskegee Airmen National Museum has moved to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The virtual grand opening was held on Monday, March 22nd.

Originally located in Fort Wayne, the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum can now be found in the Coleman A. Young Gallery. The former mayor was Detroit’s first Black mayor and he also served as a second lieutenant, bombardier, and navigator for the Tuskegee Airmen.

“We are thrilled to have partnered with the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum, honoring the legacy and achievements of the nation’s first All-Black air fighter squadron, as they make the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History their new home,” says Neil Barclay, President & CEO of The Wright. 

Tuskegee National Airmen Museum graphic design announcing its move to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

WHO ARE THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN?

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black pilots in American military history. Both men and women served as officers and enlisted personnel in the support unit.

During and after WWII, the Tuskegee pilots and military servicemembers trained at U.S. Army bases and airfields near places such as Tuskegee, Alabama and Lockbourne, Ohio.

Unfortunately, the Tuskegee Airmen experienced racial discrimination and unfair treatment. As a result of this racism, the pilots and servicemembers did not receive recognition for their great service for many decades.

The Tuskegee Airmen’s military service was instrumental in desegregating the U.S. military and paved the way for the equality of Black military servicemen and women. In 1948, Executive Order Number 9981 was enacted by President Harry Truman. This order called for the equality of treatment and opportunity in the U.S. military. It eventually led to the end of racial segregation in the Armed Forces.

You can learn more about the Historic Tuskegee Airmen’s great military service here. Also, click here for The Wright’s latest updates on viewing the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum.

We’re looking forward to visiting the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum at The Wright soon! Hope you get to go, as well! Check in with The Wright on COVID-19 safety protocols.


Feature image courtesy of the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum.

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Written by

Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].