About

The Northwest African American Museum is an anti-racist, pro-equity, affirming gathering place of hope, help, and healing for the entire Northwest region that is building intergenerational cultural wealth. 

At the heart of the African American experience in the Northwest is the story of our journey to this region, the establishment of our vibrant community, and the ways in which we have survived. To tell this ever-unfolding story, the Museum’s exhibitions and programs feature the visual arts, music, crafts, literature, and history of African Americans in the Northwest. Cognizant of the black community’s continuous evolution, NAAM focuses on African Americans whose route to the new world was through slavery as well as recent immigrants arriving from places such as Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia.

Our Mission

We are a Northwest museum that uses Black heritage to cultivate healing and hope for all. 

NAAM spreads knowledge, understanding, and enjoyment of the histories, arts, and cultures of people of African descent for the enrichment of all. We accomplish our mission by working with others to:  

Present and preserve the connections between the Pacific Northwest and people of African descent; and to 

Investigate and celebrate Black experiences in America through exhibitions, programs, and events.

Our Vision

We envision a future where equity is reality for all. 

Furthermore, NAAM envisions a Pacific Northwest region where the important histories, arts, and cultures of people of African descent are embraced as an essential part of our shared heritage and future.

Our Values

We value mutual respect in all of our interactions. 

We value creating a safe place for bold and meaningful exploration of diverse viewpoints with and within communities of African descent. 

We value education and learning as powerful lifelong tools for engagement, growth, and vitality and we seek to infuse learning opportunities in all museum activities. 

We value working in partnership with others to foster exchange with the community. 

We value the highest professional museum practices and standards of excellence. 

We value multigenerational and multicultural inclusion and are dedicated to providing an accessible experience.

We value resilience and joy.