NMAAFT

National Museum of African American Film & Television

A Century of Storytelling. A Global Impact.

Our Story

The National Museum of African American Film & Television (NMAAFT) is a national cultural institution being created to celebrate the enduring impact of African Americans on film, television, and visual storytelling. The museum honors artists, innovators, and professionals whose creativity has helped shape American culture and the global entertainment industry. From the earliest days of cinema to today’s digital platforms, African American storytellers have brought powerful voices, perspectives, and imagination to the screen.

Our Mission & Vision

At the National Museum of African American Film & Television (NMAAFT), our mission is to preserve and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to film and television while educating, inspiring, and engaging audiences of all backgrounds through the power of storytelling. Our vision is to be a national cultural destination where the stories shaped by African American creativity are honored as an essential part of our shared American and global experience, fostering understanding, sparking imagination, and opening pathways for future generations of storytellers. Together, our mission and vision guide everything we do. They shape how we collect and interpret history, how we educate and connect communities, and how we invest in the future of creative voices. These commitments come to life through our Four Pillars:

Our Four Pillars

Advancing the Mission of the National Museum of African American Film & Television

Preservation & Storytelling

Preserving history and sharing stories that shape culture.

Education & Enlightenment

Inspiring curiosity and learning through immersive experiences.

Creativity & Workforce Development

Empowering the next generation of storytellers.

Community & Cultural Exchange

Bringing people together through shared stories.

Why NMAAFT Matters

Film and television are among the most powerful tools for storytelling in our society. They shape how we see the world, understand one another, and imagine what is possible. African American creators have played a vital role in this shared cultural journey, as performers, directors, writers, producers, technicians, and visionaries whose work has touched audiences everywhere.

NMAAFT matters because it ensures these stories are preserved and presented with the significance they deserve, not only as part of African American history, but as an essential part of American and global culture. By highlighting these contributions, the museum creates space for learning, appreciation, dialogue, and connection among people of all ages and backgrounds.