African American Heritage Association of Virginia

AAHA! Virginia and the African American Heritage Trail Network (AAHTN) Initiative

AAHA! Virginia

The African American Heritage Association of Virginia (AAHA! Virginia) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to elevating and preserving African American heritage in Virginia and beyond. Guided by the vision to cultivate awareness of African American history and culture, our mission focuses on remembering the past, driving community equity, and building generational wealth for cultural stewards.

We achieve our goals through collaboration, education, and community engagement. From hosting public events to offering scholarships, study abroad opportunities, and travel excursions, AAHA! Virginia provides meaningful programs and experiences that highlight the African American narrative. Through curated content, newsletters, journals, and webinars, we amplify the voices of the African Diaspora while promoting solidarity and educational awareness.

Our cornerstone programs, including the annual Commemoration & Remembrance" and "Come Home Harvest Feast" events, embody our commitment to honoring history and celebrating cultural identity.

The African American Heritage Trail Network (AAHTN)

The African American Heritage Trail Network (AAHTN) is a signature initiative of AAHA! Virginia's design is to connect, preserve, and promote the stories, landmarks, and experiences of African American heritage across Virginia. More than a trail, AAHTN is an infrastructure, branding, and marketing campaign that consolidates and elevates the African American community's cultural and historical assets.

The initiative aims to create a cohesive and immersive cultural tourism platform, allowing participants to "Walk in Their Footsteps" and discover untold stories that shaped the African American experience. By combining local civic participation, strategic partnerships, and digital engagement, the AAHTN invites individuals, organizations, and communities to join a shared journey of exploration and remembrance.

AAHTN aspires to serve as a dynamic platform for cultural heritage tourism, driving economic benefits while fostering pride and identity. With components like the Diaspora Timeline, Trail Network, and Reward & Loyalty Program, AAHTN encourages communities to celebrate and sustain African American heritage actively.

Together, AAHA! Virginia and the AAHTN initiative represent a collective commitment to education, equity, and empowerment, forging a path for future generations to "Know Your Heritage . . . Know Your Story."

Let's walk the path together.