Location

A National Destination in New Orleans

Planned as a national destination in New Orleans, Louisiana, NMAAFT will draw on the city’s rich tradition of culture, creativity, and storytelling. New Orleans’ spirit of resilience and artistic expression makes it a natural home for a museum dedicated to film and television.

The museum will serve as a place where visitors can explore stories, celebrate creativity, and experience the cultural energy that has long defined both African American history and the city itself.

Support the National Museum of African American Film & Television

Help Preserve Stories. Inspire Futures.

The National Museum of African American Film & Television (NMAAFT) is being built through the generosity of individuals, families, foundations, and organizations who believe in the power of storytelling to connect us, educate us, and shape a better future.

Your support helps bring this national cultural institution to life ensuring that the legacy of African American creativity in film and television is preserved and shared with audiences of all backgrounds for generations to come.

Why New Orleans

New Orleans is more than a location it is a story in itself.

For more than 300 years, this city has been a crossroads of cultures, rhythms, and voices that helped shape America’s creative soul. From music and literature to theater, television, and film, New Orleans has long been a place where stories are born, preserved, and reimagined. That legacy makes it a natural and powerful home for the National Museum of African American Film & Television.

City of Storytelling

New Orleans is globally known for its traditions of oral history, music, performance, and celebration all rooted in African American culture and creativity. These traditions have influenced generations of artists and continue to inspire storytellers across the world. NMAAFT builds on this foundation, connecting the city’s living culture to the art of film and television.

Hollywood South

Louisiana has become one of the nation’s leading centers for film and television production, earning New Orleans the title “Hollywood South.” From major studio productions to independent films and television series, the city has welcomed storytellers from around the globe. NMAAFT will stand at the heart of this creative ecosystem, honoring the past while supporting the future of the industry.

A Welcoming Cultural Gateway

As one of America’s most visited cities, New Orleans attracts millions of visitors each year who come seeking culture, history, and authentic experiences. NMAAFT will add a national destination that invites visitors of all backgrounds to explore the impact of African American creativity and its role in shaping the stories we all share.

Resilience, Creativity, and Renewal

New Orleans embodies resilience, a city that has faced challenges and emerged with renewed strength, spirit, and innovation. That same resilience is reflected in the stories of African American filmmakers and creators whose work NMAAFT will celebrate. Together, they tell a powerful story of perseverance, imagination, and hope.

Community and Opportunity

Placing NMAAFT in New Orleans creates meaningful opportunities for local communities, students, artists, and emerging storytellers. The museum will serve as a bridge between heritage and opportunity, expanding access to education, careers in media, and cultural pride while contributing to the city’s continued growth.