The National Museum of African American History and Culture turned 10 on Sept. 24 after welcoming about 14 million visitors since 2016. Deputy director Michelle Commander says it feels like home to many; the four-day “The Reunion” is themed “Welcome Home: Our Legacy Continues.”
The museum’s permanent collection has grown to more than 45,000 objects. Its digital Searchable Museum has drawn more than 65 million visits, its social media channels have generated 897 million impressions, and it has earned more than 100 national and international awards.
The anniversary comes amid Trump administration scrutiny of how American history is presented across the Smithsonian. NMAAHC was among eight museums initially subjected to a review of exhibitions, educational materials and other public-facing content. Commander said the museum remains committed to telling African American history and culture. Its exhibition “In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World” is now in Cape Town after a stop in Rio de Janeiro; it is set to travel to Dakar in January 2027 and Liverpool in January 2028.
