Plans for an African American heritage walking trail connecting historic Black communities in and around downtown Asheville continue to move forward and organizers are seeking input to help shape the themes and content. The African American Heritage Trail will present stories from historic Black communities by way of themes discovered during an earlier round of community input. Sites and stories will range from well-known landmarks visible in the community today to the unsung heroes and underrecognized achievements and contributions by the Black community in the past.

During the month of September, storyboards will be on display at YMI’s Community Impact Center on The Block downtown. These will offer samples of content that could be featured on the trail to help tell an inclusive story of Asheville’s history.

The public is invited to drop in during times noted below, review the boards and offer feedback and ideas in a survey onsite or online. Groups can also schedule times on other dates during the month to provide input. Virtual viewing sessions are available as well. The boards can be viewed here.

Review the boards and offer feedback at the YMI’s Community Impact Center, 39 South Market St. on the Block in downtown Asheville

• Saturday, Sept. 4, during Goombay Festival
• Sunday, Sept. 5, during Goombay Festival
• Saturday, Sept. 11, during Sankofa Market AVL
• Saturday, Sept. 18, during Sankofa Market AVL

 Participate in a virtual Viewing Session via Zoom

• Monday, Sept. 13, 7 – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 18, 10 – 11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 28, 6 – 7 p.m.

Visit AshevilleCVB.com/AAHT to register for a virtual session.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS PROJECT >>