Why It Matters
African Americans have shaped American and global media for more than 100 years, often without systematic preservation.No national institution currently exists with an exclusive focus on African American film and television.NMAAFT addresses national priorities around cultural preservation, media equity, and creative workforce development.
What It Is
The National Museum of African American Film and Television (NMAAFT) is the first national museum solely dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and advancing African American contributions to film, television, and digital media. Planned as a museum, media archive, and workforce development hub, NMAAFT connects history, education, and the future of storytelling.
Organization
National Museum of African American Film and Television (NMAAFT)501(c)(3) national nonprofitNew Orleans, Louisiana
Inspiring The Next Generation Creators
NMAAFT is dedicated to empowering emerging storytellers through education, mentorship, and workforce development initiatives. By offering workshops, training programs, and industry access, the museum helps young creatives build sustainable careers in film and television. These initiatives focus on skill development, historical awareness, and creative confidence. NMAAFT believes representation behind the camera is essential to shaping […]
New Orleans As A Creative Home
New Orleans has long been a cultural heartbeat for music, storytelling, and artistic expression. As the home of NMAAFT, the city offers a powerful backdrop rooted in resilience, creativity, and Black cultural influence. From early cinema to modern television production, New Orleans has played a vital role in shaping visual storytelling. NMAAFT celebrates this connection […]
Preserving African American Visual Legacy
African American filmmakers and television pioneers have shaped global culture, yet many of their stories remain underrepresented or at risk of being lost. NMAAFT is committed to preserving this rich visual legacy through archival collections, curated exhibitions, and historical documentation. By safeguarding films, scripts, photographs, and oral histories, the museum ensures that past achievements remain […]