The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale has issued an urgent appeal for public support as it launches a critical $5 million campaign to ensure its survival. Unlike city-funded landmarks such as the La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum, this independent institution relies solely on community contributions to preserve stories that might otherwise be lost.
The museum's mission extends beyond displaying artifacts designed by a Disney artist; it serves as an educational sanctuary highlighting the positive contributions of the Asian American community and the cross-cultural impact of martial arts. It preserves memories of the historic 442nd American Japanese military regiment, the resilience of martial arts in Japanese Internment camps, and the heroism of figures like Filipino Kali icon Jack Santos, who defended Little Tokyo during wartime tensions. It also honors Benny Urquidez, a Latino champion who overcame gang influence to become a world champion.
To fund its operations, the museum has launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding site (https://gofund.me/e0e28705f) as an initial step toward its incremental $5 million goal. "History, the internment camps, the 442nd, the heavy pressure of Asian-Hate in America - all these items are addressed in the museum through our rotating exhibits," says Michael Matsuda, museum president. "These are important, heavy facts that we now have a precious opportunity to educate others about. The martial arts serves as our connection, our common denominator across so many diverse cultures. But the simple, painful truth is that we can only continue forward with your financial support."
Donations can be made via the crowdfunding page or directly at MAmuseum.com. Every contribution supports rotating exhibits, educational outreach, and operational costs. The museum, located at 201 N. Brand Blvd, B100, Glendale, CA 91203, is a non-profit organization dedicated to diversity, artistry, and cultural history.
