Why did pan-africans create the exhibit of American negroes at the 1900worlds fair?

Pan-Africanists created the Exhibit of American Negroes at the 1900 World's Fair to showcase the achievements and contributions of African Americans, countering prevalent stereotypes and racism of the time. This exhibit aimed to highlight the cultural heritage, economic progress, and intellectual accomplishments of Black individuals, challenging the dominant narratives that portrayed them as inferior. By presenting a positive image, the exhibit sought to advocate for civil rights and promote a greater understanding of African American identity within the broader context of global African heritage.