Honoring the legacy of African American military women: historic exhibition at Lamar Arts Depot

By Rev. Ann Mann

The recent release of Netflix’s acclaimed movie about the 6888th Central Postal Battalion has brought long-overdue recognition to this trailblazing all-Black, all-female battalion that served during World War II. Now, the community has a unique opportunity to connect this historic legacy to the present as Lamar Arts Depot and Gallery proudly announces a historic exhibition honoring the Atlanta Chapter of the National Association of Black Military Women (NABMW). The exhibition opens with a public reception on January 24th at 6 PM and runs until the end of March.

Gladys Carter, the national founder of the NABMW served in the 6888th. While the movie shines a spotlight on the 6888th, this exhibition bridges the past and present by showcasing the ongoing traditions of service and excellence among Black military women.

Visitors will not only learn about the rich history of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) but also hear firsthand from the other women who have served in the Armed Forces, carrying forward the legacy of resilience, dedication, and achievement.

Uniforms, photographs, and artifacts spanning from the World War II era to Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) will be on display, illustrating the evolution of Black women’s contributions to the United States Armed Forces.

This event also highlights the remarkable leadership of Atlanta Chapter founders, including Colonel Kathaleen Harris, Colonel Delores Hampton, and Colonel Laurie Brasher, who continue to inspire new generations of military women, as well as current president Dr. Judith Cotten.

The NABMW’s mission to “seek out, record, maintain, and tell the history and heritage of African American military women” takes center stage in this exhibition. Their motto, “To Tell HERstory, and Tell It We Shall,” echoes through the stories and artifacts that preserve the experiences of women who have served with distinction.

Special thanks to the NABMW ATL Secretary and curator Stephanie Thomas, and the NABMW ATL historian and board members Vice President Mary Clements and Karen Beamon for pulling together the artifacts for this exhibit.

All military veterans and active-duty personnel are encouraged to attend the opening reception in uniform to honor this legacy. The broader community is invited to meet the NABMW Atlanta Metropolitan Chapter and explore how the spirit of the WAC lives on through the stories of today’s servicewomen, active and retired.

For more information about the NABMW Atlanta Metropolitan Chapter and its mission, visit NABMWATL.org. And don’t miss this chance to celebrate the enduring contributions of African American military women at the Lamar Arts Depot and Gallery, where history, legacy, and HERstory come to life.

For information on Lamar Arts, please visit our website lamararts.org.