YMI Cultural Center Celebrates Black History Month with a Grand Re-Opening

Under the leadership of recently named Executive Director Sean Palmer, the YMI will embark on a new chapter filled with vibrant events that embody the spirit of TERANGA—radical hospitality.

Like returning to a beloved grandmother’s cozy living room, the YMI is opening its doors wide to share stories, laughter, and learning.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, February 27, 2025 – A YMI & RSAA Black History Program Collaboration, “Your Labor Was Not In Vain”

Spend the morning at the YMI and consider labor movements in the African American experience. This is the national theme for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, formed under the father of Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson. Gather to discuss the histories of the past, current successes, and the challenges that lie ahead. Enjoy the discussion in a brunch conversation that seeks to build community.

Thursday, February 27, 2025 – Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

In the afternoon, step through the doorway of the YMI’s renovated spaces, where each room invites a new possibility, echoing the voices of community leaders and board members. Join the celebration as the doors reopen after a period of semi-dormancy and a five-year renovation.

Friday, February 28, 2025 – YMI Honors Gala

Wrap up Black History Month by setting the table for a night of appreciation, celebration, and acknowledgment, recognizing those who’ve steered the YMI’s journey with their loving guidance and support. Learn about the new Kujichagulia Organizations-in-Residence Program, the Kuumba Artists-in-Residence, and a few other surprises. The Gala is a ticketed event. Secure your tickets today at www.ymiculturalcenter.org/events/ymi-honors-gala.

Looking Ahead: YMI’s 2025 Programming

Drawing inspiration from Nikki Giovanni’s warm reflections on familial ties, planned programming for the YMI in 2025 is a rich stew simmering with opportunities for engagement, wellness, and creativity. Programs include:

Ujima Health & Wellness Projects. Like the rhythmic pulse of a heart, these activities—ranging from yoga to line dancing—strengthen our collective physical and mental health.

Kujichagulia Organization in Residence. This initiative plants the seeds for Black organizations to grow, providing them the soil and sunlight of regular meeting spaces and developmental workshops.

Pop-Up Programming. Each month, Salons A & B transform into a marketplace of ideas and expressions, where cultural dialogues flourish like vibrant market stalls.

Kuumba Artist-in-Residence Program. Celebrating creativity, this program turns the spotlight on artists, allowing their works to paint the canvases of our community’s imagination.

Banjul—Banjo Music Series. Echoing the strings of history, this series traces the melodies from the shores of Africa to the heart of Appalachia, each note a footprint in our shared musical heritage.

We invite our communities—local, regional, and national—to join us in these enriching experiences. Let us gather as often as we can, sharing the warmth of our hospitality and the joy of our culture.

Explore Our Newly Upgraded Facilities

The YMI Cultural Center is excited to reveal its recent renovations, enhancing our venue with a modernized auditorium, an upgraded gallery, and versatile new spaces like a state-of-the-art conference room and flexible classrooms. Perfect for hosting both public and private events, the facility is equipped to support a range of activities from business meetings to cultural celebrations.

We gratefully acknowledge our sponsors—Buncombe County, Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, Canon Foundation, City of Asheville, Dogwood Health Trust, National Park Service, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Self Help. Their support has been crucial in transforming this historic landmark into a premier venue for the community’s diverse needs.

For more information, please visit www.YMICulturalCenter.org, email [email protected], or call (828) 617-9001.