The Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (GRAAMA) has its own small space tucked neatly on 87 Breonna Taylor Way, but its set to grow about nine times larger.
GRAAMA, has announced plans to welcome a three-floor, stand-alone location on State Street. Founder, George Bayard, said he’s always envisioned a larger footprint for the small, yet impactful organization, working to spotlight historical contributions of Black Indigenous People of Color:
We're Movin' on Up" – the theme song from the ‘70s TV sitcom – is a clear statement of how I feel about our move. I love the Monroe Center space, but the overwhelming support from this community demands that GRAAMA grows in size and stature. The vision we have for 245 State Street is why we waited for seven years to find the perfect location. All of our dreams will come to fruition: larger museum space, full-sized art gallery, community gathering space, and dedicated parking are only a few. The stories and people of the Grand Rapids
African American community have to be preserved for all time and GRAAMA is set to make that happen,
Bayard said.
The museum has hired the Isaac V. Norris and Associates design firm to create a unique and fresh approach to displaying art and historic memorabilia in the 63-year-old building. GRAAMA will be announcing its major capital campaign drive to reach a $5.3 million goal towards the building’s purchase and renovations.
