10 great places to see the evolution of equality

— -- The trajectory that began with slavery and led to our first African-American president is rich with milestones and achievement. Rex Ellis, associate director of curatorial affairs for the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC.si.edu), shares with Kathy Baruffi for USA TODAY his list of venues and programs to celebrate Black History Month.

National Constitution Center Philadelphia The America I AM exhibit, conceived by talk-show host Tavis Smiley, highlights African and African-American contributions spanning nearly 500 years of history. "This comprehensive exhibit covers 15,000 square feet and will travel to 10 cities over four years," Ellis says. See Muhammad Ali's boxing gloves and the typewriter Alex Haley used to write Roots, then take a walk along the cobblestone streets of this pedestrian-friendly city. 215-409-6700; constitutioncenter.org

Colonial Williamsburg Williamsburg, Va. "Beginning on Feb. 21 and continuing through 2009, dramatic interpretive programs that bring to life stories of the African-American struggle for freedom and liberty during the American Revolution are scheduled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of African-American programming here," Ellis says. Family-friendly programs, such as Nation Builders, invite guests to converse with historical figures, including slave preacher Gowan Pamphlet. 757-229-1000; history.org

Amistad America New Haven, Conn. A replica of the Amistad schooner, based here but under repair for winter, has sailed to Africa, the Caribbean and other ports to teach about the victorious rebellion in 1839. "This program, which provides awareness of the history of the slave trade, is a wonderful learning experience for youngsters," Ellis says. Don't miss the definitive exhibit of sketches depicting historic and present Amistad journeys displayed in New Haven's Gateway Community College from Tuesday. 203-495-1839; amistadamerica.org.

Civil War Museum Kenosha, Wis. "This museum, highlighting the upper Midwest's role in the Civil War, is very inclusive," Ellis says. On Sunday, there will be a dramatic presentation of the story of Thomas Morris Chester, an African-American journalist imbedded in the Union Army during the Civil War. On Tuesday, Ida B. Wells, a dramatization about the daughter of slaves who became a civil rights advocate, will be featured. 262-653-4141; thecivilwarmuseum.org