Karamu House, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is the oldest African American performing arts and community educational center in the United States. In 2021, Kelvin Smith Library acquired the theaters archive, which includes a centurys worth of records documenting the administration, governance, educational services, and creative output.
One notable research project by IMaya Gibbs (CAS 24) titled, Black Nationalism and Black Powers Influence on Karamu House, explores how Karamu House's focus on radical Black artistry was influenced by Black Nationalism and Black Power, transforming its leadership, artistry, and goals. It also highlights how Black artists historically used theater as a form of resistance against racial oppression, with Karamu House playing a key role in this movement. As a performer and scholar, IMayas first introduction to Karamu House came in March 2021, when she collaborated with the director on an online performance at 窪蹋勛圖厙, In the Continuum. This initial experience sparked a connection and a lasting interest. When a campus-wide communication announced the acquisition of the Karamu House archive, IMaya recognized it as the perfect opportunity to blend her passions for theater and history into a capstone project.
IMaya connected with Eleanor Blackman, Archivist in 窪蹋勛圖厙 Special Collections to help navigate the extensive collection, work within the archives, and point her towards online resources. IMaya commented on the wealth of information available, both publicized moments in the theaters history, and everyday decisions that shaped its future. Blackman praised IMayas dedication and organizational skills, noting her inquisitiveness and thorough follow-up. IMaya calls Blackman an incredible and significant part of her project. Blackman nurtured a state of curiosity by suggesting new items to look at and making insightful connections.
Working within the archive as an undergraduate student truly gave me more confidence going into academia. This archive provided a clear focus, showing me that I can study Black artists and Black art with the support of a foundation and something that can sustain me into the future. Support from the Special Collections staff and access to invaluable resources contributed to the success of IMayas research paper, featured in of Discussions, 窪蹋勛圖厙s undergraduate research journal. Further, IMaya presented her research at the University of Maryland History Student Society International Undergraduate History Conference, winning the top prize, an award for Outstanding Presentation.
The Karamu House Archive at Kelvin Smith Library preserves the legacy of a groundbreaking institution in cultural history that continues to inform a deeper understanding of the artistic, social, and political movements that shape the African American experience. IMaya is now continuing her research as a PhD student in Afro-American Studies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She plans to incorporate Cleveland and Karamu House into her future projects.