Museum of Black Women & Girls Popup: Beauty & Brilliance
June 22 – September 30 2026
Black Resource Center at AC Bilbrew Library
Honoring the Resilience, History, and Transformative Power of Black Women in California
The Museum of Black Women & Girls Pop-Up is one of the most significant free African American cultural events in Los Angeles this summer. Hosted at the Black Resource Center inside A C Bilbrew Library, this immersive exhibit celebrates the women who shaped California through their brilliance, grit, and lasting impact.
From historic trailblazers to political powerhouses, artists to athletes—this exhibit gives these remarkable women their flowers in real time and living color. Throughout the summer, the pop-up will feature free community activations, oral history preservation opportunities, and public programming rooted in empowerment and community building.
The exhibit honors more than 30 exceptional Black women and girls, inviting the Los Angeles community to experience the humanity, struggle, and deep resilience behind their stories.
Honored Trailblazers & Leaders
Through intimate storytelling, archival materials, and curated panels, Beauty & Brilliance puts a spotlight on the dynamic history of Black women across four core pillars.
Historic Trailblazers
From the pioneering spirit of Biddy Mason to the archival brilliance of Miriam Matthews, the exhibit highlights the early pioneers who paved the way for future generations. Visitors will explore the stories of women who led the charge in civil rights, literature, and community building in early California, ensuring their vital place in Los Angeles history is permanently honored.
Featuring: Queen Califia, Mary Ellen Pleasant, Charlotta Bass, Frances Albrier, Biddy Mason, and more.
Political Powerhouses
Shining a light on the women who have broken barriers in local, state, and national governance. This section celebrates the organizers, activists, and elected officials who have championed equity, driven policy changes, and amplified the voices of marginalized communities from the steps of City Hall to Washington, D.C.
Featuring: Maxine Waters, Kamala Harris, Barbara Lee, Karen Bass, Holly J. Mitchell, and more.
Arts, Letters & Ideas
Centering the creators, authors, and storytellers who use their brilliant vision to shift culture and document the Black experience. Through literature, film, and performance, these women have captured both daily trials and profound joys, preserving collective memory and redefining American art.
Featuring: Maya Angelou, Octavia Butler, Hattie McDaniel, Ava DuVernay, and more.
Athletes & Champions
Celebrating the physical dominance, discipline, and standard-setting excellence of California’s iconic sports figures. These athletes have not only broken records on global stages but have consistently used their platforms to advocate for social justice, gender equity, and community investment.
Featuring: Allyson Felix, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Lisa Leslie, Cheryl Miller, and more.
Presented By
