Comics today reflect our multicultural world. But it was not always this way. The exhibit Unmasked, created by the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center, explores the decades of activism by Black artists who tore down racist stereotypes and created comics for everyone to enjoy. The exhibition will be located at the Main Branch of the Dayton Metro Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, from Sept. 21 through Oct. 27.

In the 1930s and 40s, pioneers like Jackie Ormes and Jay Jackson depicted Black characters as human beings in defiance of Jim Crow. In the 1950s, Gene Bilbrew ignored moral authorities and created spaces for LGBTQ+ expression. In the 60s and 70s, Billy Graham and Trevor Von Eeden took over from white artists and redefined Black superheroes for all fans.

By the end of the 80s, Black comic creators had built a foundation for the future, where artists used technology to expand the independent movement and take over the mainstream. Their work resonated with increasingly diverse readers and created honest depictions of Black political and social culture. For more information, email [email protected] or call 800.752.2603 ext. 0.