Amata-Cosponsored AAPI National Museum Study Bill Passes House

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amatawelcomed House passage this week of the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture Act (H.R. 3525). Amata was an original cosponsor of this bill upon introduction in February by Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY).

“We value our fa’a Samoa, and generations to follow will benefit from knowing our culture,” Amata said. “Under this Act, a national museum would tell some of the stories of our island, along with other Pacific and Asian communities. Washington, D.C. already has national museums dedicated to African American heritage and Native American history, and we can develop one for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.”

The legislation creates a bipartisan commission to plan out the creation of the first national museum dedicated to preserving the history, culture, and accomplishments of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). All the AAPI communities in combination make up the fastest-growing population segment of the United States.

“This bill is a wonderful idea from that nationwide perspective, and a good reminder to also seek out support and do our best to maintain our own collection of heritage items in our local museum,” Amata continued. “Future generations need access to the origins of our culture whether they live in the islands or are born and raised in the states. We are all caretakers of our culture and heritage, and can help them remain connected to our island life and Samoan way wherever they go.”

The legislation creates an eight-member panel of experts in museum planning or AAPI research and culture solely to establish a viable objective of a new museum in the nation’s capital. 

The Commission would recommend an action plan to Congress, begin a fundraising plan, identify possible locations, seek out independent review, and submit the entire study to Congress. As part of that 18-month study, the Commission would determine if such a museum should be part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, and research complex.

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