Photos: Smithsonian\Wikimedia Commons
This Women’s History Month, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) celebrates Oprah Winfrey and her impactful donation of WeightWatchers stock to the museum. When Winfrey provided her initial gift to the museum in 2007, and then again in 2013, she propelled the museum and its mission, helping to build the museum that stands on the National Mall today. Her recent contribution reflects her continued commitment to supporting the advancement and preservation of African American history and culture.
“As our largest donor, Oprah Winfrey is, without a doubt, an essential champion of this museum,” said Kevin Young, Andrew W. Mellon Director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. “Her legacy as a culture icon and supporter is a testament to her steadfast commitment to inspiring the next generation of philanthropists and preserving Black history.”
The museum will highlight through its platforms Winfrey’s contributions to the country not only as a Black female entrepreneur, journalist, entertainer and philanthropist, but also as an individual committed to uplifting the stories of African Americans. She has left an indelible mark on Black history using her influential platform to break barriers and amplify diverse voices.
About the National Museum of African American History and Culture
Since opening Sept. 24, 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has welcomed 10 million in-person visitors and millions more through its digital presence. Occupying a prominent location next to the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American story and its impact on American and world history. The museum has also launched and is continually expanding its reach with the Searchable Museum portal and other efforts to bring African American history into the world’s hands and homes. For more information about the museum, visit nmaahc.si.edu follow @NMAAHC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or call Smithsonian information at (202) 633-1000.
