New Ohio exhibit explores history of blacks in comic books

WILBERFORCE, Ohio – A new exhibit explores the history of blacks in comic books as the film “Black Panther” spurs interest in black comic book characters.

“Behind the Mask: Black Power in Comics” opens Saturday at the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center in Wilberforce and runs through Jan. 26.

The exhibit looks at both the negative portrayal of blacks as sidekicks or supporting characters, as well as new characters who are superheroes of their own.

The museum features exhibits on black history, art and culture in Wilberforce, which is home to two historically black universities, Wilberforce and Central State.