The Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (GRAAMA) is gearing up for a significant change, moving to a new location that will expand its footprint to 30,000 square feet, as reported by FOX 17. This considerable growth from its current 2,000 square foot facility at 87 Monroe Center St. NW will offer new opportunities for exhibiting local and international African American history tied to West Michigan.
In further detail, the new location at 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE was the former site of Compas College of Film & Media, and the expansion means not just more exhibit space, but also classrooms, a library, and a fully equipped auditorium. "This dream has been a long time coming — but it’s been worth the wait," George Baynard III, Executive Director of GRAAMA, said, per WZZM 13. The move is expected to be complete by the year's end, with a capital campaign launching to fund this ambitious venture.
The transition is not just about physical space. The enhanced facilities will allow GRAAMA to host a variety of cultural and community events, including plays, lectures, film screenings, and poetry slams. The museum’s evolution is backed by support from critical local institutions, such as the City of Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, showcased in statements retrieved by WOOD TV.
