MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Black leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference in politics, education, business, the arts or another area of interest.
Profiles of these leaders will be published leading up to the Juneteenth holiday on June 19. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Sam Bradley is the executive director of the Pan African Historical Museum.Anita Bradley
Sam Bradley
Age: 57
Community: Springfield
His story: Sam Bradley’s passion for history began when he was in a predominately white high school. He took on leadership roles there and in college by becoming the first Black high school class president and leading the minority student alliance group in college and becoming a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the first Black fraternity.
“My dedication to history and community empowerment drove me to support young Black and brown individuals in achieving their goals,” Bradley said.
Bradley went on to become a member of a rap group called Def Force Mc’s and later opened a record company.
During a photo shoot with an artist in Springfield, Bradley said he came across the Pan African Historical Museum.
The museum, founded in 1995 by Lujuana Hood, links the African diaspora to Springfield and surrounding communities. It is one of the oldest African-American heritage museums in Massachusetts.
The nonprofit organization “propagates the legacy and rich history of people of color,” according to Bradley.
It features a collection of contemporary and historical artwork and artifacts, showing how African culture and African-American history converge.
“I immediately had to go inside and see what it was all about,” Bradley said.
He came back the next day to learn more and later became the director of performing arts.
When Hood died in 2019, the museum closed.
Bradley helped reopen the museum as the executive director with the intention of continuing Hood’s legacy and educating more people.
“I want to continue with Ms. Hood’s vision and leave a legacy of my own through leadership and a strong sense of community,” Bradley said.
In his words: “Put in as many hours you can to learn the ins and outs of a museum.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
