About the AACCLB

On October 29, 2019, the African American Cultural Center Community Advisory Committee voted to continue monthly meetings indefinitely. Please see below for more details about the Committee.

Background

On February 20, 2018, Councilman Austin introduced, and City Council approved, an item requesting the City Manager to work with community stakeholders to identify potential City-owned sites in Long Beach for an African American Cultural Center. After sites were identified, City staff recommended that further engagement of stakeholders and subject matter experts be conducted, contingent on the identification of a funding source.

On September 4, 2018, while adopting the 2019 Budget, the City Council allocated funds to support planning and outreach efforts for the African American Cultural Center.

From February to May, community members are invited to participate in the visioning process through community roundtable meetings, focus groups, and an internet survey. This outreach was be led by Tasha W. Hunter of Wiggins Hunter Consulting and Alan Burks of Environ Architecture, Inc. Concurrently, Lord Cultural Resources, a premier national organization experienced in creating cultural centers and museums, worked with a Community Advisory Committee to explore best practices. Community members are also welcome at the monthly Community Advisory Committee meetings.

The mission of the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach is to preserve, honor and celebrate the heritage and advance the culture of the Black/African American community in Long Beach and beyond.

Mission Statement
Adopted June 25, 2019