This week, Riverside East Rotary had the opportunity to visit exhibits for the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California right next door to our meeting location.

We explored two powerful exhibits that highlight important stories from our region’s history. Dr. Norman Towels guided us through the Legacy of Clarence Muse exhibit, which features artifacts from his extensive collection celebrating the life and career of Clarence Muse — a pioneering Black actor, writer, and composer who appeared in more than 200 films and helped challenge racist stereotypes in early Hollywood. Muse, who lived in nearby Perris, used his platform to push for greater dignity and representation in entertainment.  Dr Towels is also a member of the Perris Rotary Club so it was great to have him visit us.

We also toured the Out in the I.E. exhibition with Robert Merrill. This exhibit explores the history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in the Inland Empire, covering themes like activism, art, political representation, and community care across several decades.  The exhibit highlights personal stories, milestones, and the ongoing efforts that have helped shape a more inclusive community throughout the Inland Empire.

A big thank you to Dr. Towels and Robert Merrill for sharing these important stories and helping us better understand the diverse history of our region.