Mesa, Arizona's artistic scene is stepping it up with two new exhibits championing the legacies of African American women. Coinciding with Black History and Women’s History months, the displays at Mesa Community College have been drawing crowds eager to dive into the storied past and dynamic future of matriarchs in the city's African American community.

The first show is a nod to the past, focusing on the "Matriarchs of Washington Park: the African American Women Who Persevered through Racism in Segregated Mesa." Leading lights like Veora E. Johnson, Velma Alston, and Lillie Mae King are honored for their roles in carving to create a path forward in the face of discrimination and segregation. As described by ABC15, these women's stories embody the resilience and leadership required to shepherd a community through challenging times.

The second exhibit, titled "Future Matriarchs: The next generation of Matriarchs," spotlights contemporary artists like Mia B. Adams, Shaunté Glover, and Carla Keaton whose works reflect the ongoing struggle and ambitions of African American women today. This segment promises to give viewers a fresh look at the evolving concept of womanhood and leadership within the culture.

Mesa Community College, serving as the venue for these exhibits, has effectively become a pulse point for cultural exchange and reflection. The college's role is critical as it continues to encourage locals to engage with the artwork on a deeper level. BNN Breaking News emphasized the importance of such exhibitions in "forging a more inclusive and equitable society." The message is clear: these women's legacies are not just to be observed but also to be learned from and emulated.