CLARKSBURG, W.Va (WDTV) -The Kelly Miller Community Center will open its Black History Museum and host a screening of the film Hidden Figures this Saturday. The movie tells the story of three African American women whose mathematical work helped power NASA’s success during the Space Race in the 1950s and 1960s.

Organizers say stories like these deserve to be told.

“There were certain parts of American history that were left out, and we want to make sure the contributions made by African Americans to American history are included,” said James E. Griffin, chairman of the West Virginia Black Heritage Festival.

Inside the museum, visitors will find exhibits highlighting influential African Americans who made lasting impacts in politics, literature, science, music, and more. Exhibit creator Kathy Burley says sharing that history helps connect generations.

“When I think about my history and my culture, I want to share it. And like I say, it’s not just my history — it’s American history,” Burley said.

In addition to the museum opening at 2 p.m. and the movie screening, the center will also host a clothing and food giveaway starting at 10 a.m. Organizers hope the events encourage the community to learn more about the deep roots of Black history in West Virginia.

“Many people don’t know the contributions of African Americans — from Carter G. Woodson of West Virginia to Leon Sullivan, and even the first meeting of the Niagara Movement, which later became the NAACP, held in Harpers Ferry,” Griffin said.

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