America's Black Holocaust Museum (ABHM) is a significant institution dedicated to the history of the Black Holocaust in America. Founded in 1988 by James Cameron, a survivor of a lynching, the museum faced temporary closure in 2008 due to reduced funding during the Great Recession. However, a foundation was established in 2012 to continue Cameron's legacy, and the museum was re-opened as a virtual museum. In 2016, plans were announced to move the physical museum to Milwaukee's historic Bronzeville neighborhood. The re-opening was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the museum finally re-opened in February 2022 after receiving an anonymous $10M donation.
Located in Milwaukee, America's Black Holocaust Museum is the only memorial and museum that interprets the African American experience in the United States as an ongoing holocaust. The museum promotes racial repair, reconciliation, and healing through developing awareness and empathy. The original museum was demolished in early 2017, and a new building called The Griot was built on the site of the original museum. This new location continues to serve as a center for education and scholarship related to the Black Holocaust.
America's Black Holocaust Museum welcomes visitors of all races and backgrounds, and encourages community understanding of the nation's history of racism, prejudice, social change and cross-cultural understanding. It achieves this through educational exhibits, special programming, and guided tours about seven distinct historic eras. The museum serves as a supportive forum for sharing thoughts about race and racism in America, and is committed to promoting a deeper understanding of African-American cultural identity.
History & Anthropology Ethnology Historic house Person & Artist Religion
#4 History & Anthropology in Milwaukee #3 Ethnology museums in Milwaukee #5 Historic houses in Milwaukee #4 Person & artist museums in Milwaukee #18 History & Anthropology in Wisconsin #5 Ethnology museums in Wisconsin #16 Historic houses in Wisconsin #7 Person & artist museums in Wisconsin #1 Religion museums in Wisconsin
401 W North Ave, Milwaukee
America's Black Holocaust Museum has 1 rating.
America's Black Holocaust Museum in Milwaukee offers a sobering and educational experience focusing on the history of African Americans from pre-captivity to the present day. The exhibits are well-curated, presenting a chronological journey through difficult topics such as slavery, segregation, and ongoing struggles for equality. Visitors often comment on the powerful impact of the personal stories and artifacts displayed.
The museum's strength lies in its ability to provoke thought and encourage dialogue about race relations in America. Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who provide additional context and are willing to answer questions. The interactive elements and multimedia presentations help to engage visitors of all ages.
Some visitors note that the museum is relatively small, which can be seen as both a positive (easily digestible in a few hours) and a negative (leaving some wanting more depth in certain areas). A few reviews mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or expansion.
The location in the Bronzeville neighborhood adds historical significance, though parking can sometimes be a challenge. The gift shop receives positive mentions for its selection of books and educational materials.
While the content can be emotionally challenging, most visitors find the experience enlightening and necessary, praising the museum for its role in educating about a crucial part of American history that is often overlooked or sanitized in mainstream narratives.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near America's Black Holocaust Museum in or around Milwaukee.