Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise is the first feature documentary about the incomparable Dr. Maya Angelou, best known for her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Random House). Distinctly referred to as “a redwood tree, with deep roots in American culture,” icon Maya Angelou gave people the freedom to think about their history in a way they never had before. Dr. Angelou’s was a prolific life; as a singer, dancer, activist, poet, and writer she inspired generations with lyrical modern African American thought that pushed boundaries.
This unprecedented film celebrates Dr. Maya Angelou by weaving her words with rare and intimate archival photographs and videos, which paint hidden moments of her exuberant life during some of America’s most defining moments. From her upbringing in the Depression-era South to her work with Malcolm X in Ghana to her inaugural speech for President Bill Clinton, the film takes us on an incredible journey through the life of a true American icon.
Join the National Women’s History Museum for a special screening and talkback in the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library’s Auditorium on the 5th floor. Light refreshments will be provided as supplies last.
American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be provided for the duration of the event. If you have further questions, please email [email protected].
Schedule:
- 5:00pm: Doors open; light refreshments available on the 5th floor outside of the auditorium while supplies last
- 6:00pm: Screening begins
- 8:00pm: Talkback with the film’s director Rita Coburn and special guests
- 8:30pm: Program concludes
Be the first to visit the new exhibition, We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC on opening night!
Explore the stories of Black feminists through the long 20th century and their impact on their communities in DC and across the country. This exhibition is hosted by the National Women’s History Museum in partnership with the DC Public Library. Learn more about the exhibition here.
Schedule:
- 5:00pm: Ribbon cutting and special remarks from:
- Exhibition curators Dr. Sherie Randolph and Dr. Kendra Field
- Member of the Board of Trustees of DC Public Library Donella Brockington
- DC Councilmember Brooke Pinto
- Board Chair of the National Women’s History Museum Susan Whiting
- Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, who is also featured in the exhibition
- 6:00pm: A special performance by Rochelle Rice
- All night:
- Hands-on activities and giveaways
- Complimentary snacks provided by DC Central Kitchen
- A chance to meet local organizations continuing the work of the Black feminists featured in the exhibition, such as:
This event is free, but registration is recommended.
Join us for a conversation on the history of Black feminism with Dr. Alison Parker, Dr. Beverly Guy-Sheftall, and Dr. Anastasia Curwood. Learn about NWHM’s upcoming exhibition, We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC, debuting March 30 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library and presented in partnership with DC Public Library.
The National Women’s History Museum strives to provide programs that are accessible to all visitors. For questions, or to request accommodations such as an ASL interpreter or closed captioning, please email hist[email protected] at least 7 days in advance of the program.