Alexandria Honors ASALH Northern Virginia Branch

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Organizing Northern Virginia Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) was honored with an official proclamation from the City of Alexandria, signed by Mayor Alyia Gaskins.

The proclamation was presented at the Alexandria Black History Museum, where Museum Director Audrey Davis delivered the recognition on behalf of the Mayor and City Council.

Representing the branch were President Dr. Joseph P. Boutte, Branch Historian Gillis Taylor, Kortnei Morris, Sabrina Black, and Jackie Boutte, along with supporters of the organization’s growing regional efforts.

A Legacy of Preserving History

Founded in 1915 by Carter G. Woodson, ASALH is dedicated to the research, preservation, and dissemination of African American life, history, and culture. The proclamation highlights Woodson’s establishment of Negro History Week in 1926—now observed nationally as Black History Month—and recognizes the organization’s enduring impact on scholarship and public education for more than a century.

Building a Regional Network

The City’s recognition also affirms the mission of the Organizing Northern Virginia Branch, established in 2025, to bring together educators, historians, students, genealogists, civic leaders, and community organizations. The branch is focused on strengthening historical literacy and promoting a deeper understanding of African American history throughout Northern Virginia.

Honoring Alexandria’s Historic Institutions

The proclamation further acknowledges Alexandria’s rich historical landscape, including institutions such as the Alexandria Black History Museum, the Freedom House Museum, and the Contrabands and Freedmen Cemetery Memorial, all of which preserve and interpret vital chapters of American history.

Looking Ahead

As the branch prepares for formal chartering at the ASALH National Meeting and Conference in Norfolk, Virginia, in September 2026, this recognition marks an important milestone in its development and growing visibility.

Residents and organizations are encouraged to learn more, get involved, and support ongoing efforts to promote historical education and community engagement.

Learn more and join the effort:
👉 https://asalh.org/organizing-northern-virginia-branch-homepage/