By Kevin Epps
When I recently stepped into the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum and Learning Center in Redwood City, I was moved by how alive and comprehensive the exhibits are. The museum is not a relic—it’s a space for learning, reflection, and connection. Every room tells a story; every artifact points to the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans.
This institution is not simply a dream come true. It is the result of decades of persistence and vision from its founder, Carolyn Hoskins. Last year, she and her team secured $2 million in state funding, championed by State Sen. Josh Becker, to establish a permanent footprint after years of operating as a pop-ups and mobile exhibits. The funding has enabled the museum to transition into a continuously active space, expanding programming, hosting school tours, and inviting more of the public to engage.
Carolyn describes her mission plainly, “The whole point is the education… I’m here to tell my story about my history, which is so rich, and to let people know that African Americans have contributed so much to this great country.”
Walking through the museum, I saw how far that mission reaches. The exhibits go well beyond iconic civil rights figures — you’ll find sections on Black inventors, space pioneers, music legends, political trailblazers, and cultural innovators. These are stories often missing from conventional history books.
Carolyn also makes sure the museum serves the community in real, tangible ways. She donates space for senior groups, youth meetings, community events, and nonprofit gatherings.
“You can’t do anything if you’re not going to work together,” she said. “Once people finally get here … they never forget it.”
Black History Is American History
School districts are increasingly embracing the museum. In 2025, buses of students—across racial backgrounds—have come through the doors. “These kids don’t want to leave,” Carolyn said with a laugh. “They learn so much they did not know. And it’s not just for Black kids. This is world history. Everybody benefits.”
For Domini Hoskins—the museum’s namesake and Carolyn’s grandson—seeing this work realized is deeply personal. “I’m still in disbelief,” he told me. “It all started with me asking a question in school, and my grandmother showing up with stories and soul food. Now my name is on a building, I bring my kids here. It’s come full circle.”
He stresses that even though the museum is tied to his name, the legacy belongs to all of us. “This is American history. Even if we’re not here forever, we’re leaving a lasting imprint. People will seek more knowledge and pass it on.”
The path here was not smooth. Funding was uncertain for years, and there were many moments when Carolyn and Domini considered giving up the project. “It costs money to do this work,” Domini reflected. “Senator Becker gave us the alley-oop with that $2 million. We’re not taking it for granted. It’s only going to keep growing.”
A Living Monument
Today, the museum stands as a testament: history is not static, and memory is not optional. For those who have not yet visited, there is no better time. As Carolyn reminds visitors often, “You don’t always have to travel to Washington, D.C. to see history come alive. You’ve got history right here. And you’ll learn just as much.”
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Call to Action & Visitor Information
For more information about the museum and to contribute to the ongoing legacy of preserving African American history, please see below:
Address:
Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center
890 Jefferson Avenue
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 921-4191
Website / Email: hoskinsblackhistorymuseum.org | info@hoskinsblackhistorymuseum.org
Hours:
• Tuesday – Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Closed on Monday
(Group and school tours may be arranged outside these hours by appointment.)
Admission & Tours:
General admission is offered, and educators, school groups, and community organizations can schedule tours in advance.
Support & Donations:
Your visit, donations, and community support help keep the museum’s doors open and the work growing. From acquiring new exhibits to expanding educational programs, every gift—large or small—makes a difference.
Kevin Epps is a Dad, award-winning filmmaker, community activist, author, executive editor of the SF Bay View “National Black Newspaper” and a board member for the SF Bay View Foundation. Reach him at kevin@sfbayview.com or on Instagram: kevinepps1.
