The Association of African American Cultural Gardens (AAACG) has entered into agreement with the Cleveland Foundation to establish funds for the completion and the maintenance of the garden.
”We are thrilled to be teaming up with the Cleveland Foundation”, said AAACG Executive Director Obie Shelton. “The Foundation has a stellar reputation locally and nationally for supporting important projects and causes that enrich the Greater Cleveland community. Finishing the African American Cultural Garden has been a 63-year goal, and this partnership with the Cleveland Foundation will help us reach that goal.
The African American Garden site was dedicated in 1977. The completed African American Cultural garden will convey the journey of the African American community from the past through the present and into the future. It begins with departure from Africa through the symbolic “Door of No Return” which has been erected and was dedicated in 2016.
Additional features yet to be constructed include a multi-use platform bearing North Star imagery honoring Ohio’s role in both the Underground Railroad and the Great Migration. A triangular sculpture at the west end of the platform will symbolize strength, resilience, and the contributions to America by peoples of African descent. The planned water feature will recall the waterways travelled on the path from slavery to freedom and will end at a fountain representing victory and hope.