On Saturday, October 5th, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (located in Detroit) is gearing up for its 7th annual Wright Gala. This year, the gala is going with a theme surrounding mystery and mystique: a Masquerade Ball. Guests will partake in and experience lavish costumes, entertainment from 313 The Live Experience band and DJ Fingers on the 1s and 2s, and delectable food. The annual gala impacts the quality and scope of their mission to teach and celebrate African American history and culture, increase the legacy of literacy through storytelling and family activities and offer unique and engaging public programming.
We recently spoke with Edward Foxworth, the museum’s director of external affairs to find out more information.
How long has the gala been around and what organizations/initiatives/public programs does the celebration’s proceeds benefit?
The gala is now in its 7th year and with the theme of Masquerade Ball, it is designed to support educational activities, literacy initiatives and public programs. Some of the deserving programs the gala supports are Camp Africa, a week-long free summer camp, serving more than 500 youth ages 7 – 12 and Meet the Scientist, a weekend STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) workshop and presentation, along with panel discussions, book signings and engaging lectures.
What’s your role with the museum and how long have you been in this role?
Having recently started this position after serving as a consultant for the past year, I now serve as the director of external affairs with responsibilities for marketing, community engagement and internal communications.
This year’s celebration is a Masquerade Ball. What can guests expect?
Guests of this year’s gala can expect to experience a fundraising event filled with elegance and mystique! From 6 pm to 9 pm there will be music by the 313 Live Experience band, and honoree awards will be given to some of Metro Detroit’s most deserving residents. Individuals will enjoy food and beverages from 20 different restaurants and tour the newest exhibit – The Inside World: Contemporary Aboriginal Australian Memorial Poles. There will also be a silent auction in which individuals can go online now to start their bidding, by visiting www.thewrightgala.org. Strategically positioned throughout the museum, 20 Restaurants, including Central Kitchen, Savannah Blue, Touch of Class, Table No. 2 and others, will be serving a variety of mouth-watering foods including lobster mac & cheese, pulled pork, there will be turkey and beef carving stations, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options as well. Desserts by Sweet Potato Sensations and others will be served too.
Who are this year’s honorees?
The Charles H. Wright Museum’s Gala will honor civic leaders, trailblazers and cultural champions who have made significant contributions to the museum, including Judge Craig Strong, Mrs. Maureen & Roy Roberts, Mrs. Alma & Edward Greer and Mrs. Retha & Walt Douglas.
Where can people find more information?
For more information, or to register for the silent auction, interested attendees can visit www.thewrightgala.org.
