The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) will host Sounds of Social Justice, a fundraising event focused on the intersection of music, athletes and activism, on Wednesday, April 24, at 5 pm at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, located at 611 Commerce Street.

The event will feature a panel discussion moderated by Michael Eric Dyson, Georgetown University professor, activist, media personality and renowned author, with the following panelists: Malcolm Jenkins, two-time Super Bowl champion, three-time Pro Bowl safety (Philadelphia Eagles) and co-founder of Players Coalition, a nonprofit organization created to impact racial and social inequality; Derrick Morgan, nine-year linebacker with the Tennessee Titans; and Dr. Dina Bennett, senior curator for NMAAM.

Following the panel will be a live auction featuring artwork focused on the music and artists of the social justice movement. The night will conclude with a musical performance by India.Arie, Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and national chair of NMAAM, local soul singer Jason Eskridge, and local female R&B trio The Shindellas.

“Music, like sports, can bring people from all facets of life together. Some of the most influential and popular musicians have successfully used their platforms to draw awareness to societal issues, such as racism and criminal justice reform, as well as to express frustration and hope with the goal to make the world a better place,” Jenkins said. “The National Museum of African American Music is honoring decades of musicians for their cultural influence. This event will challenge and reflect how music and athletes are contributing to societal change.”

NMAAM, set to open in early 2020 in Nashville, is dedicated to educating, preserving and honoring the legacy of African Americans and their contributions to music.

With over 1,400 artifacts already collected, NMAAM will be the only museum in the world whose mission is solely focused on Black music.

“Teaming up with athletes and artists who have made an impact through their activism is really exciting for us because we share their commitment to social equity and education,” said H. Beecher Hicks III, CEO/president of NMAAM.

“The history of American music is one of struggle and triumph, just as it is with athletes. We’re honored to join forces in celebration of the ways in which music and sports can come together to advance our nation.”

As part of the event, a curated exhibit of artifacts from Sam Cooke, James Brown, Alicia Keys, Paul Robeson and Malcolm Jenkins, all of whom used their profiles to advocate for social justice, will also be on show.

All proceeds from the event, including ticket sales and money from the live auction, will go to NMAAM.

The event begins at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel at 5 pm with a cocktail reception, followed by the panel discussion at 6 pm and musical performances at 7 pm.

Tickets are on sale now for $100 at www.eventbrite.com/e/sounds-of-social-justice-tickets59078341911.