Over 100 students, faculty, and staff gathered for a powerful and moving experience as the Black History Mobile Museum visited our campus on Wednesday, February 18. Led by founder Dr. Khalid el-Hakim, the museum brought history to life through rare artifacts, storytelling, and an intentional call to action: know.your.history.to.shape.your.future.
The museum experience was an immersive journey where students engaged with authentic artifacts spanning centuries of Black history, from painful reminders of oppression to powerful symbols of resistance, excellence, and innovation. Faculty members noted how the tactile and visual presence of history created an emotional depth that textbooks alone cannot replicate. The highlight of the event was a screening of “Living Proof,” a documentary chronicling the creation and national impact of the Black History Mobile Museum. The film revealed Dr. elHakim’s personal journey and how he transformed a lifelong commitment to preserving Black history into a mobile educational movement that travels across the country.
For many in attendance, the documentary reframed history as something active and urgent. Students reflected on the importance of community-based knowledge, intergenerational responsibility, and reclaiming narratives that are often omitted in traditional curricula. The combination of artifacts and film created a layered experience: one that honored the past while empowering participants to act in the present.
“Seeing the artifacts in person made history feel real and personal. ‘Living Proof’ showed me that preserving our stories is an act of resistance. I left feeling more connected to my identity and more responsible for carrying this history forward.”
— Skyline College Student
“The documentary reminded me that change starts with one person’s commitment. Dr. elHakim didn’t wait for institutions to validate the importance of Black history—he built something powerful himself. That motivated me to think about how I can contribute to my community.”
— Skyline College Student
Events like the Black History Mobile Museum affirm our college’s commitment to equity, culturally sustaining education, and creating spaces where students can see themselves reflected in history. The overwhelming turnout demonstrates a clear desire on our campus: to learn deeply, reflect critically, and honor the stories that shape our collective future. We extend our gratitude to UMOJA/ASTEP, CIPHER, Black and Brown Scholars, and ASSC for making this event possible for our campus community.
For more information about the Black History Mobile Museum, please visit https://www.blackhistorymobilemuseum.com/.
Article by Dr. Nate Nevado
Photos by MCPR
