The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, is issuing an urgent appeal for community support as it launches a $5 million fundraising campaign to ensure its survival. Unlike city-funded institutions such as the La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum, this independent museum relies entirely on public donations to continue its mission of preserving and sharing the rich history of martial arts and Asian American contributions.
At the heart of the museum's plea is the recognition that its exhibits represent far more than artifacts. They tell the stories of the 442nd American Japanese military regiment, the resilience of martial arts in Japanese Internment camps, and the heroism of Filipino Kali icon Jack Santos, who defended Little Tokyo during World War II. They also honor Benny Urquidez, a Latino champion who overcame gang influence to become a world-renowned martial artist. These narratives, the museum argues, are at risk of being forgotten if the institution closes.
“History, the internment camps, the 442nd, the heavy pressure of Asian-Hate in America - all these items are addressed in the museum through our rotating exhibits,” said Michael Matsuda, museum president. “These are important, heavy facts that we now have a precious opportunity to educate others about. The martial arts serves as our connection, our common denominator across so many diverse cultures. But the simple, painful truth is that we can only continue forward with your financial support.”
To kickstart the campaign, the museum has launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding page as an initial step toward its $5 million goal. Donations can also be made directly through the museum's website at MAmuseum.com. Every contribution goes directly toward sustaining rotating exhibits, funding educational outreach, and keeping the doors open.
The museum, located at 201 N. Brand Blvd, B100, Glendale, CA, serves as an independent educational facility dedicated to promoting diversity, artistry, and cultural history. By connecting Asian American heritage with the global impact of martial arts, it acts as a bridge of understanding for visitors worldwide. The museum emphasizes that keeping history alive requires active community guardianship, and without support, the lessons and sacrifices of the past may be permanently silenced.
