The Museum for Black Girls in Denver offers an insightful and empowering experience. It is an interactive, celebratory space where Black women and girls are seen, heard, celebrated and given much-deserved symbolic flowers.
Located on the second floor of the downtown Denver Pavilions, the pop-up gallery serves as a valuable cultural resource, with an attention to representation that resonates with visitors from diverse backgrounds. Its impact extends beyond the museum walls, promoting awareness and appreciation for local Black female excellence including the honorable former first lady, Wilma Webb, and dance extraordinaire, Cleo Parker Robinson.
The Museum for Black Girls began its journey in the heart of Denver in 2019. Along with her aunt Von Ross, Charlie Billingsley’s inspiration and vision was to create a space that would showcase the strength, resilience and beauty of Black women throughout history. After being laid off from three jobs, she didn’t know exactly what she wanted to do, but she knew she could do exactly what she wanted, however that looked. Since its inception, the museum has embarked on an evolutionary journey of seven iterations, making stops in Houston and Washington, D.C. Each location served as a testament to the universal importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Black women.
“When I started this, it was not supposed to be a business. I was going to do a one-night event and here we are at year five.” Billingsley’s creative dream has evolved into a dynamic reality as part of the Downtown Denver Partnership’s Popup Denver program, which provides a central, accessible location for one year. This homecoming symbolizes not only the museum’s roots, but also a commitment to build a sense of pride and belonging within the local community.
She describes growing up in Colorado, “We didn’t have spaces for Black girls, so this museum stands as more than just a collection of exhibits; it is a living testament to the resilience, strength, and creativity of Black women. I believe that Black women are the foundation and blueprint of everything.” Through art, history and culture, the museum invites visitors to engage with and appreciate the multifaceted narratives that define Black womanhood. “We evolve every day, and that’s what I love,” she says.
One of the many highlights at the Museum for Black Girls is the wall of affirmations. Guests are first invited to look at the “We See You” mirror. “We want visitors to see themselves as we see them – and that is beautiful, strong and courageous,” Billingsley says. The mirror represents a powerful force for change and inspiration. Guests are encouraged to write on the affirmations wall, and end their experience by writing and receiving a love letter to Black women.
The celebration of “Black Girl Magic” emerged as a powerful and uplifting movement. The term was coined to recognize and celebrate the unique qualities and achievements of Black women. It acknowledges contributions that paved the way for a cultural phenomenon that goes beyond a hashtag – it’s a mantra that highlights often-overlooked accomplishments in arts, science, business and activism. The movement behind the words seeks to break stereotypes, challenge societal norms and give a sense of empowerment and unity among Black women.
Many events, like The Museum for Black Girls’ Black Girl Magic Brunch, feature a combination of inspiring speakers, Black-owned vendor markets and interactive performances that highlight the diversity and richness of Black women’s experiences. Most recently, the museum presented a “Sister Circle” panel, featuring Charlie Billingsley, Breigh Jones-Coplin PsyD, Dianne Myles, Lesley Pace and Clare Sabon; hosted by Joce Blake. The panel encouraged open and empowering conversations about self-love, kindness, true sisterhood and the collective strength of Black women. Platforms for these conversations, whether online or in-person, foster a sense of community and solidarity.
The media landscape is gradually evolving to better represent the multifaceted experiences of Black women. Recently, actress Taraji P. Henson expressed frustration surrounding workplace inequality and unequal pay in the movie industry. She acknowledged that increased visibility of Black women in diverse and positive roles contributes to reshaped social perceptions and promotes a more accurate narrative. During an appearance on the popular daytime television show, “The Talk,” Henson told fellow actress and comedian, Sheryl Underwood, “I don’t speak just for Black women; I speak for women of color. That’s why it’s important to have women of color and diversity in companies.”
In addition to media representation, the “Black Girl Magic” movement extends beyond celebration to education, shedding light on the historical contributions and achievements of Black women throughout history. By learning more about the Black female experience over time, individuals gain a deeper appreciation for the magic inherent in their resilience.
For Billingsley, resilience laid the foundation for the museum’s creation. “I am still learning the self-care journey,” she shares. “You think you have to be everything for everyone, especially as an entrepreneur, but being hyper-independent is a trauma response.” By prioritizing boundaries and delegating tasks, the museum has continued to thrive.
The Museum for Black Girls features a collection of local artists of all ages. As reflected by the museum’s “Our Story” statement on its website: “‘Black Girl Magic’ is more than a buzz-word or trend. It’s the essence of Black women. The Museum for Black Girls is a space to celebrate this essence, as well as educate about the journey to our present state and liberation. Finally, and most importantly, this museum serves as a love letter to Black women and our experience.”
All are invited to experience the magic at The Museum for Black Girls.
Editor’s Note: For tickets and more information, visit www.themuseumforblackgirls.com.
