Community Leader.
Political Activist.
Educator.
Embracing Ella’s Legacy
The mission statement of the Ella L. Jordan African American History Museum is the following:
1
To honor the significant political, social, and economic contributions of African American women in our community throughout our history, particularly that of Ms. Ella L Jordan.
2
To provide a space where citizens can come together across race and gender to continue the betterment of our community.
3
To provide educational opportunities for those interested in learning more about African American history in Pensacola.
There are approximately 35,000 museums in the United States. Of those, approximately 150 focus on African American studies and/or history. From that 150, less than ten are focused on African American Women’s history. As a city who prides itself on telling its diverse history, there is a gap when we look for African American history in the area.
Teaching our history in its entirety is very important - doing so gives us perspective to the negatives and positives, the setbacks and the progress, the areas we have improved and the things still in need of reform.
In the Museum, we will preserve the history of the women’s stories, capture the historical importance of place, and position this history to reinstate the philanthropic work of women to support the youth of tomorrow. In addition, the Museum will serve as a catalyst for revitalizing a neighborhood in a geographical area in Pensacola that is bordering the downtown revitalization efforts. Although the immediate area is still predominantly a Black neighborhood, several blocks away residents are young people who are first-time home owners and desire to live in diverse neighborhoods. The Ella Jordan African American History Museum will be a vibrant, eclectic educational community center highlighting Black women’s history and a one-of-its kind in Pensacola and the nation.
