Presented through historians, business owners and individuals who experienced first-hand the phenomenon of “traveling while black” in pre-Civil Rights America, the film tells the story of Victor H. Green’s eponymously named travel guide that allowed African Americans to safely tour the country during a time of severe institutionalized racism.

Directed by acclaimed documentarian Yoruba Richen, “The Green Book: Guide to Freedom” looks at the daily realities that African Americans faced on the road – the struggles, indignities, and dangers, but also the opportunities and triumphs that were won along the way.

The film will premiere on the Smithsonian Channel on Monday, Feb. 25, at 8 p.m.

Admission to this special Black History Month film screening is free, but online registration is required at www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events.