On September 24th, the National Museum of African American History and Culture will have been open to the public for its first full year.

In just one year’s time the Museum has already touched the lives of more than 2 million visitors from across the country and around the world!

We think that’s something to celebrate and I hope you do, too.

That’s why we’re challenging 1,000 friends like you to join the Museum as a Charter Member before its first anniversary!

The clock is ticking—this is one of your last chances to support the Museum and receive Charter Member status, so now is the time to join!

We’re proud of our Museum, inside and out. Visitors tell me that they have been moved and inspired by our building’s presence on the National Mall. It is quite a site! The exterior of the building is unique to any other structure around—it literally shimmers!

But we didn’t just build a building. We built a collection of more than 36,000 historical and cultural artifacts that reflect the diversity of the African American story. 4,000 of these objects have been on view in the Museum’s inaugural exhibitions. From a South Carolina slave cabin, to Muhammad Ali’s robe, to a button from Barack Obama’s presidential inauguration, these amazing pieces of African American history have left visitors with a better understanding of the strength and resilience of the African American people.

But there is so much more to do!

When the nation joins together to celebrate the Museum’s first anniversary on September 24th, we will launch our Museum into an exciting new phase—one in which we will test new ideas, create new exhibitions, and further explore the evolving dynamics of African American history and culture. There are more artifacts to uncover and more conversations to start!

But our future success depends on reaching our goal of inspiring 1,000 individuals to join as Charter Members before September 24th.

Our Museum is a testament to the fact that the African American story is one of constant change and perseverance. As the Museum looks toward its second year, we have the chance to dig deeper, speak out louder, and engage more people in this proud and eye-opening American story.

But we cannot do it without your help. Be one of 1,000 Charter Members to join in celebration of our first year!

All the best, Lonnie G. Bunch III Founding Director

P.S. Please hurry! September 24th marks not only the Museum’s first year, but it is also one of your last opportunities to join the Museum and enjoy Charter Member status. Don’t miss this chance to demonstrate that you have been with the Museum since the very beginning. Join Today!