In spite of the struggles, Black people have contributed to every industry and space. If you’re interested in the specifics, here are five heritage trails and tour groups dedicated to telling Black stories.
A Tour of Possibilities – Memphis, Tennessee
This tour company, founded by Carolyn Michael-Banks, deserves all the praise. Michael-Banks may be from New York originally, but she knows Memphis so intimately she could have been born there. Most of the stops are related to Black history. They include the National Civil Rights Museum, the Lorraine Motel, Stax and Slave Haven.
African American Heritage Trail – Lexington, Kentucky
Dr. Yvonne Giles is a scholar, who is often consulted on Black History. She contributed to the exhibit on Black jockeys that is currently on display at Keeneland. Her African American Heritage Trail tour takes you to Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School, St. Paul AME Church and the former homes of prominent Black physicians, teachers and jockeys.
Experience Real Cartagena – Cartagena and Palenque, Colombia
Founder Alex Rocha takes guests in and around Cartagena. Take your pick from nine amazing tours, including the Graffiti Tour and the tour of Palenque.
Hush Hip Hop Tours – New York
Hip hop just turned 50, and Hush Hip Hop Tours celebrates this special art form. Guides will take you on an engaging tour through Harlem and The Bronx, where hip-hop came to life. You’ll pass important landmarks like 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, where DJ Kool Herc threw the party that started it all. You’ll also see the Apollo, Yankee Stadium and murals dedicated to hip-hop pioneers.
African-American Heritage Trail – Martha’s Vineyard
If you’re interested in learning about Black contributions in Martha’s Vineyard, this heritage trail covers 31 sites. There’s also the Black-owned Businesses of Vineyard Haven tour, if you want to support Black businesses.