Modules
Africa & Slavery
Africa & Slavery
Aviation
Aviation
Civil Rights
Civil Rights
Contemporary History
Contemporary History
Entertainment
Entertainment
Harlem Renaissance
Harlem Renaissance
History in Connecticut
History in Connecticut
Inventors & Pioneers
Inventors & Pioneers
Military History
Military History
Pullman Porters
Pullman Porters
Sports
Sports
Women's History
Women's History
Join our membership plan
Testimonials
These videos make me believe I can do anything, especially because these individuals achieved greatness during hard times.
Megan 9th GradeThe exhibit was very interesting because I didn't know many of the people, yet the achievements they made were significant.
Sarah 7th GradeThe videos make me feel inspired because of how some of these people started out and where they ended up. My experience was enjoyable, and I learned a lot.
Matt 5th GradeThe Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Culture & Belonging Pillar, in conjunction with the Passages Business Resource Group, had the opportunity to bring the Costen Cultural Exhibit to MassMutual Financial Group. The exhibit was showcased on both the Springfield and Boston, MA campuses. We also licensed 5 series of the Costen Cultural Virtual Exhibit, which will be available for one-year to over 5,000 employees to view at his/her/their leisure. Both on-campus events were well attended. We have had more than 2,000 views of the virtual exhibit, that is creating a space of education and conversation. Working with Chantal and Mr. Costen was a pleasure. They were available and accommodating throughout the process.
Paytreen MassMutualThe videos made me proud because these people had to be resilient to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
James 5th GradeI found the videos interesting. They seem like the type of videos that would play in a museum somewhere.
Josh 5th GradeIt was very informational and showed me many things about the people who helped change the Black culture's view in America and around the world.
Tim 6th GradeThe Costen Cultural Exhibit was phenomenal! It was nice to learn about my history and see articles from the past. I didn't think I'd enjoy it as much as I did. While exploring the exhibit, you really are taken on a journey...a few journeys. Personally, the real treat was seeing fellow employees of different races enjoy and learn about Black culture. I heard a lot of "oh wow," and "wow, I didn't know that." That's how you know you've touched minds and hearts. I'm glad The Costen Cultural Exhibit came to MassMutual!
Kevin MassMutual
With personal stories and testimonials, Bill Costen presents the extensive collection he has of Black American images, artifacts, and documents. The Costen Collection videos span time and topics, generating curiosity in any viewer, presenting not only well known topics such as Civil Rights and Slavery, but also less common topics such as the Pullman Porters, Aviation, the Harlem Renaissance, and more. The content within the videos may spark conversation, inspire important questions, and launch more extensive research for anyone wanting to learn more about American history.
Melanie Social Studies Coordinator