JACL Celebrates the Commission To Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of AAPI History

On Tuesday, April 26th, 2022, Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-6)’s H.R.3525, also known as the Commission To Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture Act, was passed by the House of Representatives. If this historic bill passes through the Senate and is approved and signed into law by President Biden, H.R. 3235 would ensure the creation and development of the first national museum dedicated to Asian American and Pacific Islander American (AAPI) history. The establishment of such a museum, one that is solely committed to preserving and retelling the histories and experiences of AAPIs in our country, would be a monumental achievement and would serve as a significant milestone for our community and a worthy response to the recent rise in anti-Asian sentiment across the country.

The impetus for this bill is the belief that the contributions, achievements, and life histories of AAPIs deserve to be preserved and taught on a national platform in order to ensure a faithful and respectful depiction of our community’s history. For far too long, the lived experiences of AAPIs have been overlooked, marginalized, and even misappropriated. The implementation of a large-scale ethnic museum, such as the one that is currently being proposed, would not only make certain that our community’s history and legacy are not forgotten, but that it is properly honored, visible, and accessible to the larger public.

Museums have long served as centers of learning, safety, and healing. As home to spaces that foster thoughtful reflection and education, museums serve an important cultural function. It is crucial that as a society we continue to support and advance efforts to ascertain that diverse voices are heard and preserved. The establishment of a culturally specific national museum, dedicated to honoring, preserving, and celebrating AAPI lives, is long overdue. As a strong endorser of Rep. Meng’s bill, the JACL applauds the passage of H.R. 3525 in the House and urges the Senate to take action and pass H.R. 3525 as well.