Sacramento’s Sojourner Truth Museum Fundraiser Honors Black Icons

By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff WriterThe Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum celebrated Sacramento’s 175th anniversary in style Sept. 28 with its “Chocolate and Wine” fundraiser, honoring some of the city’s Black historical icons. Held at the Sam and Bonnie Pannell Community Center, the event was a vibrant gathering of community members, filled with food, wine, and performances that spotlighted Sacramento’s rich Black history.Three trailblazers who have left a lasting impact on Sacramento were honored. Doris Alkebulan, the city’s first Black engineer, was recognized for breaking barriers in a field where few women and even fewer people of color were present. Michael Benjamin, a pioneer in local Black theater, was celebrated for creating a space where Black stories could be told and appreciated on stage. Pastor Larry Meeks, of the First Church of God and Christ, was acknowledged for his long-standing leadership and service to the community, offering guidance and support to generations of Sacramentans.Alkebulan spoke about her journey as Sacramento’s first Black engineer, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of African Americans in STEM during the 1970s. Her story echoed the importance of community support, mentorship, and education, particularly through HBCUs, in overcoming discrimination and leaving a lasting impact on...