The African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Act establishes a museum and educational center at the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City to honor the enslaved Africans and African Americans buried there, and to explore the history and cultural impact of slavery.
Kirsten Gillibrand
Senator
NY
The African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Act facilitates the establishment of a museum at the African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City. This museum will serve as a memorial and educational center dedicated to those enslaved and buried at the site, as well as other enslaved Africans and African Americans. The Act outlines the acquisition of property, the planning, design, and construction of the museum, and its operation in collaboration with the National Park Service and other entities. It also establishes an Advisory Council to guide the museum's development and administration.
NYC's African Burial Ground to Get International Memorial Museum: $15M Approved for 2025
The African Burial Ground International Memorial Museum and Educational Center Act officially greenlights a new museum right in Lower Manhattan, at the site of the African Burial Ground National Monument. This isn't just another museum; it's a dedicated space to remember and honor the estimated 20,000 enslaved Africans and early African Americans buried there during the colonial era. The bill directly acknowledges their "strength, courage, commitment, and perseverance" (SEC. 2)., a powerful statement recognizing the often-overlooked history of enslaved people in the North.
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
This section lays out the core of what the museum will do. It's about creating a place of remembrance, but also a center for learning and exploration. Think exhibits on African cultural traditions brought to the U.S., a deep dive into the institution of slavery (both here and globally), and space for studying artifacts and documents (SEC. 4). They're even talking about potential DNA research to connect descendants with their ancestors (SEC. 2). The museum will collaborate with the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and other institutions, fostering a collaborative approach to research and education (SEC. 4).
Making it Happen: Location and Funding
This is where the practical details come in. The bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire property at 22 Reade Street (right next to the existing National Monument) or another suitable spot within the National Landmark (SEC. 5). The Federal Government will cover 2/3 of the costs of acquiring the land, planning, designing, and building the museum, working with New York City, New York State, and potentially private organizations like the African Burial Ground Memorial Foundation (SEC. 5). For 2025, 15 million is authorized for appropriation. (SEC. 9).
Running the Show: Management and Oversight
The Secretary of the Interior, advised by a newly created African Burial Ground Advisory Council, will be in charge of operating the museum (SEC. 6 & 7). This Council will include federal, state, and city officials, plus 14 members appointed by the Secretary, ideally with expertise and connection to the African Burial Ground's legacy (SEC. 7). The Council will advise on everything from acquiring artifacts to setting policies for exhibits and research (SEC. 7). A dedicated Director will manage the museum day-to-day, with the Secretary able to appoint two staff members to assist (SEC. 8). The bill is pretty clear that they want to get this council up and running fast – within 180 days of the Act's enactment (SEC. 7).
Funding and Future Programs
Beyond the initial $15 million for 2025, the bill authorizes "necessary sums" for future years, and specifically allows for funds to be used for things like private fundraising, curriculum development, community outreach, and even a dedicated visitors center (SEC. 9). The money is meant to stay available until it's used, with no yearly limits, showing a long-term commitment (SEC. 9). The bill also allows the Secretary to accept gifts and donations, further supporting the museum's financial stability (SEC. 6). This is a major step in recognizing and preserving a crucial, often painful, part of American history, and making sure it's accessible to everyone.