A new exhibit opened yesterday at the National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C. The exhibit, “America I AM: The African American Imprint,” celebrates 500 years of African American contributions to the United States — from the 1600s, to the inauguration of the first African American President.

Broadcaster and exhibit presenter Tavis Smiley led a special tour of the exhibit for students from Washington, D.C.’s Neval Thomas Elementary School. The exhibit features over 200 historical artifacts, as well as items from contemporary African Americans like Serena Williams.

“I have a better understanding of stuff. My favorite part was to see the doors ["The Door of No Return" from the Cape Coast Castle, the Ghanaian departure point for millions of Africans who were shipped to America as slaves.],” said Faith, 11, a student at Neval Thomas Elementary School.

“America I AM: The African American Imprint,” will be at National Geographic Headquarters through Sunday, May 1, 2011.

Learn about the exhibit on National Geographic Museum’s website.

Browse through pictures of Black Pioneers of Science.