Congresswoman Meng's bill is the first step to creating AAPI museum in nation's capitol

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, D-Queens, introduced legislation Wednesday (July 31) to examine the possibility of creating the first museum dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and accomplishments of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI).   

Entitled the “Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture Act,” the bill would create an eight member panel – consisting of individuals with various expertise in museum planning or AAPI research and culture – to look into the viability of establishing such a facility in the nation’s capital. The measure would require this commission to:

• Report recommendations for a plan of action for the establishment and maintenance of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture;
• Develop a fundraising plan to support the establishment, operation, and maintenance of the museum through public contributions;
• Obtain an independent review of this fundraising plan, including an analysis of the resources necessary to fund the construction of the museum and its operations and maintenance without reliance on federal funds;
• Report on the availability and cost of acquiring collections for the museum, identify potential locations for the facility in Washington, D.C., and determine its regional impact on other museums; and,
• Submit to Congress a legislative plan of action to establish and construct the museum.

The bill would also direct the commission's recommendations to address whether the museum should be part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex. 

Last May in a separate campaign, the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center launched a $25 million fundraising drive for permanent gallery space on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., with a glitzy party in Los Angeles full of celebrities and politicians.

If successful, an Asian American gallery could join museums and galleries dedicated to other historically underrepresented groups that have staked out space in a national park that is quintessentially American.

"The ability to have that visibility and recognition is so important," said Lisa Sasaki, the center's director. Despite temporary exhibits along the mall, she said, "there has never been a dedicated space where the public could consistently visit and find out about the history and culture of Asian Americans."

The commission created under Meng's bill would have 18 months to complete the full study.

“We need to weave the narrative of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities into the greater American story. I firmly believe the story of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is sorely misunderstood and creating a national museum would ensure that our experiences—both good and bad—are recognized by all Americans,” said Meng.

“Museums are gateways for Americans and the world to see the United States’ rich history, challenges it overcame, and potential for greatness. Establishing this commission is the first step toward the creation of a national AAPI museum. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.”

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