“Funding cuts to museums and cultural attractions that emphasize the importance of preserving African American history have had a major impact,” said Dr. Martin. “But we will continue to fight to preserve our history.”
NGBIWM has drawn visitors from all over the globe with its immersive museum exhibits, which include “A Journey to Freedom,” whose wax figures include Henry ‘Box’ Brown; “The Underground Railroad,” featuring wax figures of Harriet Tubman; and “The Slavery Era” with its immersive “Middle Passage” and “The Horror of Captivity.” NGBIWM is the first wax museum of African American history in the nation.
Despite the choppy waters NGBIWM has had to navigate, Dr. Martin noted the Museum remains open, active, and deeply committed to its mission. She highlighted Congressman Kweisi Mfume, State Senator Cory McCray, Delegate Jackie Addison, and Delegate Stephanie M. Smith, whose support helped NGBIWM to receive $6 million in bond funds and a $2 million grant from HUD.
“Funds have been used to tear down three properties, upgrade the front of the building, and renovate the lobby,” said Dr. Martin. “The museum has also received funds from the American Rescue Plan Act and the city’s Cultural Spaces Grant for further renovations.”
NGBIWM also continues to offer cultural programs and events to the community. On Dec. 26, 2025, NGBIWM held its annual Kwanzaa Celebration at Henderson-Hopkins Elementary School located at 2100 Ashland Ave., in Baltimore. The event featured the Voices of History Youth Ensemble along with performances by the Community of Academic Scholars and Keur Khaleyi Kids.
“Events such as the museum’s Kwanzaa celebration emphasize the importance of unity and cultural discovery,” said Dr. Martin. “It is also the responsibility of the younger generation to continue to carry on the fight against racism and to preserve our history.”
According to Dr. Martin, NGBIWM is also in the midst of a major fundraising and membership push to support their historic expansion project, which will bring new galleries, learning spaces, and enhanced community outreach to Baltimore. “People can support NGBIWM by taking out memberships,” said Dr. Martin. “People can also visit without a membership or bring a group. We also encourage people to come see the new Shirley Chisholm and Henrietta Lacks figures.”
Dr. Martin says NGBIWM will continue to carry out its mission despite its latest tests. “There is an attack on institutions that have African American or Black in their names,” said Dr. Martin. “But Great Blacks in Wax will continue to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, to keep visitors engaged through special exhibits and events, and to inspire future generations to fight for justice.”
She added, “We have to preserve Black history and storytelling even in moments of political tension and uncertainty. The museum remains committed to telling its story uncompromisingly and unapologetically despite these challenges.”
For museum hours and other information visit https://www.greatblacksinwax.org/
What a blessing, I have been fine you online for a good while.