Reginald F. Lewis Museum

On Saturday, Sept. 19 at 1 PM, Dr. John F. Leeke and his daughter, Ananda Leeke, share their family’s story of freedom. Their research traces their origins back to Hagerstown, Maryland, where Peter and Catherine Leek escaped to Amherstburg, Canada — with their 14 children.

The Lines We Cross: 250 Years of Maryland Forging America traces how Black Marylanders have pushed boundaries, broken systems, and shaped the social, cultural, and political landscape of America. This multi-floor, evocative experience at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum explores how Black Marylanders crossed literal and symbolic lines to claim their lives, build vibrant communities, and challenge the nation to live up to its highest ideals.

Experience the Reginald F. Lewis Museum’s latest exhibition, The Lines We Cross: 250 Years of Maryland Forging America, through a dynamic performance of movement, music, and dance interpretation by Dance Baltimore. Drawing inspiration from the artwork and musical artifacts displayed in the “Black Artistic Expressions Within Maryland Gallery”, the ensemble will bring to life themes surrounding iconic pieces such as jazz legend Billie Holiday’s piano alongside creations by Tom Miller, Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, and Jacob Lawrence.