The Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum (also known as The SOJO Museum) has been actively involved in serving youth and families in the South Sacramento area since 1996, when it developed numerous creative arts programs under the National Academic Youth Corps, Inc. Its purpose was to enable youth from culturally diverse backgrounds to stretch their minds and imaginations and to provide a safe environment that stimulates creativity, promotes healthy lifestyles, and develops social skills. After obtaining 501(c)(3) non-profit status in 2002, the Museum has offered scores of no- or low-cost programs, workshops, and activities on-site and out in the community to thousands of youths.
The museum, located in the Florin Business Arts Complex, offers educational programs that focus on diversity and involve children and youth in hands-on art projects. It showcases murals, art installations, exhibitions, and programs representing various cultures. The Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum became an official Sacramento Museum in 2008 and has expanded to include a library, media center, and gallery in 2021.
SOJO serves as both a traditional museum and an educational center for children, youth, families, and the local community. SOJO is Sacramento’s only museum featuring African and African American art, artifacts, and multicultural murals. SOJO uses art appreciation to teach civic values, cultural accountability, life skills, and wellness.
Exhibitions and Tours: Our forty exhibits and murals include "Black Cowboys," "Harlem Renaissance," and "Transatlantic Slave Trade." These displays educate visitors on African and African American history while celebrating BIPOC stories.
Youth Docent Program is a workforce development program that trains high school students to become museum docents. Participants learn public speaking, writing, and marketing skills.
Outreach for the Arts and Education supplements school cirriculum by offering museum tours, workshops, and activities. Field trips, wellness classes, and music education through the Technology and Leadership Academy foster peer engagement and academic success.
Connect Youth and Seniors Creative Arts Program unites youth and seniors. Seniors share lifelong skills, fostering connections and preserving cultural knowledge.
SacYouthNightOut serves youth ages 5-19 on the first and third Friday of each month by providing them with art activities, games, food, and music. These events offer a safe space to connect with peers, play games, socialize, and make art.
African Marketplace is held every first and third Saturday and features a pop-up market highlighting African American business owners, live music, and food for the entire family. We host this marketplace to support small business owners and provide a place for community members to connect and enjoy African American food and culture.
Community Murals Program collaborates with local and national artists to design and paint murals that beautify, improve public spaces, and advance equity for underserved communities. Our mural projects include community paint days and professional development activities for emerging muralists.