RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Community leaders in Richmond say the Black Lives Matter movement has helped renew interest in Richmond’s African-American culture and history.

BLK RVA is an initiative launched in August 2019 between Richmond Region Tourism and 20 community leaders to highlight historic African-American tourist attractions and engage visitors in events that support Richmond’s Black community.

The group continues to promote Black-centered tourism in light of recent events.

BLK RVA was recently awarded the Richmond Region Tourism Chairman’s Award in recognition of its contributions over the past year.