Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum

Our mission is to open minds and change lives through the exploration and celebration of African American history, experiences and culture through art education and outreach.

Our vision is of a world in which the adversity and achievement of African American history inspire everyone toward a greater understanding of acceptance and unity!

In 1996, Shonna McDaniels, a visual artist and community activist, envisioned an institution to preserve Black history and celebrate the accomplishments of African American people and their legacy.

As a result the previous name of Sojourner Truth Multicultural Art Museum changed to Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum. We offer resources to document, preserve and educate the public on the history, life and culture of African Americans.

The museum is named for Sojourner Truth who, although born a slave, worked tirelessly for abolition, women’s rights, non-violence, and civil and economic advancement of oppressed people. The museum gives homage to Mrs. Sojourner by expanding the historical & biographical knowledge of her life’s work and carrying on her mission by teaching, demonstrating and promoting projects that accentuate the ideals and principles for which she stood.

FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Shonna McDaniels

Shonna McDaniels founded the Sojourner Truth Art Museum in 1996. In addition to her Executive Director duties, she is also a professional artist, teacher, muralist and community activist. Prior to 1996, McDaniels was one of the co-founders and artists of the Visual Arts Development Project, teaching art classes, conducting workshops and organizing art exhibits throughout the Oak Park and Del Paso communities. Though the museum is based in South Sacramento, it’s legacy throughout the Sacramento region is renowned to grass roots organizations, professional artists, politicians and the business community. McDaniels’ contributions have been recognized by Council members Lauren Hammond, Bonnie Pannell, Larry Carr, as well as Mayor Kevin Johnson, Congresswoman Doris Matsui, and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The museum programs are dedicated to creativity and social change within the context of an evolving, healthy community.

ABOUT THE FLORIN BUSINESS ARTS COMPLEX

Florin Business Arts Complex is home to over 50 African American owned and operated businesses and non-profit organizations. It is a gem in Sacramento that is dedicated to diversifying businesses across several different verticals.

This business complex hosts the African Marketplace every other Saturday!

Board of Directors

National Academic Youth Corps (NAYC), the parent organization for the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum (SOJO Art Museum), was incorporated in 1996. The Board of Directors comprises five public, private, and non-profit individuals. These Board Members are charged with shaping the organization's path and guiding it as it expands its operations.

President of the NAYC, Inc. Board of Directors President

William Mc Daniel

President: William McDaniel’s, a California State Correctional Officer for 30 years, has helped rehabilitate inmates and was recently voted Officer of the Year. Retired State of California Correctional Officer 2023 is the Andre Morris Foundation Executive Director, a nonprofit formed with Community Correctional Officers of Color.

Secretary/Event Manager, BA in Business,

Marquis Marcilous

Administration and Human Resource Management. Night Market Series LLC Co-Founder, Golden Gate University Golden Gate University Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Human Resources Management and Services Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Human Resources Management and Services 2014 - 2017. Experience in team management, ability to interact and communicate with diverse counterparts.

Treasurer,

Tasha Bryant

In Progress...

Senior Volunteer Coordinator,

Ms. Constance Arnick

Arnick- Senior Volunteer Coordinator, Studied Social and Behavioral Sciences at City College of San Francisco, El Centro Jr College, Evergreen College, San Jose State University.

Meet the SOJO Museum Team

Each person has a vital position in helping the museum stay successful. Thank you to our SOJO team for your strong work ethic and positive energy. They are such a joy to be around.