The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale has issued a heartfelt appeal to the public as it launches a critical $5 million campaign to ensure its survival. The museum, an independent nonprofit, warns that without community support, it may be forced to close its doors, taking with it irreplaceable stories of Asian American history and the cross-cultural impact of martial arts.
Unlike city-funded institutions such as the La Brea Tar Pits or the Natural History Museum, the Martial Arts History Museum relies entirely on donations. Its exhibits go beyond showcasing artifacts; they serve as an educational haven that highlights the positive contributions of the Asian American community and the profound role of martial arts in the West. The museum preserves memories of the historic 442nd American Japanese military regiment, the resilience of those in Japanese Internment camps, and the heroism of figures like Filipino Kali icon Jack Santos, who stood alone with two sticks to protect Little Tokyo during wartime. It also honors Benny Urquidez, a Latino champion who overcame gang influence to become a world champion.
To raise funds, the museum has launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding page (https://gofund.me/e0e28705f) as the first step toward its incremental $5 million goal. Donations can also be made directly at MAmuseum.com. Every contribution goes toward sustaining rotating exhibits, funding educational outreach, and keeping the doors open.
“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,” said 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.”
The museum’s core mission is to serve as a bridge of understanding and education for visitors from around the world. By connecting Asian American heritage with the global impact of martial arts, it promotes diversity, artistry, and cultural history. The museum is located at 201 N. Brand Blvd, B100, Glendale, CA 91203.
