The brand-new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture opened to the public this weekend and Disney is sharing their support of the project.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts. Nearly 100,000 individuals have become charter members of the museum.
Disney supported the project with a $3 million donation, part of which helped construct the facility’s outdoor reading grove. The informal space invites visitors to gather and experience the Museum grounds from a different perspective. In addition, benches in the reading grove offer guests views of the Washington Monument.
ABC will also broadcast the two-hour ceremony during the 2016-17 season. “ABC is thrilled to celebrate the opening of this important new addition to the Smithsonian Institution and to help share the story of the struggles, contributions, and triumphs of African Americans throughout the history of our country,” said Channing Dungey, president ABC Entertainment.