Exhibit Honors Black Actor Clarence Muse at Inland SoCal Civil Rights Institute

The pop-up exhibit features artifacts from the collection of historian Norman Towels.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California has opened a new Black History Month exhibit focused on the life and legacy of pioneering Black actor Clarence Muse. The exhibit, 'The Legacy of Clarence Muse: Artifacts from the Collection of Dr. Norman Towels,' features materials from Towels' extensive collection of Black history artifacts, including films, advertisements, comics, and more related to Muse's career. Muse was one of the highest paid Black actors of his time and used his platform to push back against racist stereotypes in Hollywood films.

Why it matters

The exhibit shines a light on the important contributions of Clarence Muse, an influential but often overlooked Black actor who helped pave the way for greater representation and diversity in the entertainment industry. It also highlights the work of historian Norman Towels, who has dedicated decades to preserving and sharing Black history in the Inland Southern California region.

The details

The pop-up exhibition at the Civil Rights Institute features materials from Towels' extensive collection of historic advertisements, comics, university yearbooks, posters, books, and movies related to Muse's life and career. Visitors can view the exhibit Wednesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Towels will provide a special showcase of his Muse collection on February 19 from noon to 1 p.m.

  • The exhibit opened on February 4, 2026 and will run through March 13, 2026.
  • Towels will provide a showcase of his Muse collection on February 19, 2026 from noon to 1 p.m.

The players

Clarence Muse

A pioneering Black actor who appeared in more than 200 films and was one of the highest paid Black actors of his time. He used his platform to push back against racist stereotypes in Hollywood films and was a resident of Perris, California.

Norman Towels

An educator and history collector who is committed to preserving Black history in Inland Southern California and beyond. He has amassed an extensive collection of artifacts including historic advertisements, comics, university yearbooks, posters, books, and movies.

Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California

A museum and educational institution dedicated to promoting civil rights and social justice in the Inland Southern California region.

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The takeaway

This exhibit serves as an important reminder of the vital role that Black artists and entertainers have played in shaping the cultural landscape, even in the face of systemic racism and discrimination. By preserving and sharing these stories, the Civil Rights Institute and Norman Towels are helping to ensure that the legacies of trailblazers like Clarence Muse are not forgotten.