The Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale has issued an urgent appeal for community support as it launches a $5 million fundraising campaign to ensure its survival. Unlike city-funded institutions such as the La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum, this independent nonprofit relies entirely on public donations to preserve and share the cultural heritage of Asian Americans and the global impact of martial arts.
The museum’s exhibits go beyond artifacts designed by a Disney artist; they serve as a sanctuary for stories that might otherwise be forgotten. These include the sacrifices of the 442nd American Japanese military regiment, the resilience of martial arts in Japanese Internment camps, and the heroism of Filipino Kali icon Jack Santos, who protected Little Tokyo during World War II. The museum also highlights the legacy of Benny Urquidez, a Latino champion who overcame gang influence to become a world-class martial artist.
“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 has launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding page as the first step toward its $5 million goal. Donations can also be made directly at MAmuseum.com, with every contribution supporting rotating exhibits, educational outreach, and operational costs. The museum emphasizes that without immediate community guardianship, these vital pieces of cultural history will be lost.
Located at 201 N. Brand Blvd, B100, Glendale, CA, the Martial Arts History Museum is an independent, educational nonprofit dedicated to promoting diversity, artistry, and cultural history. By connecting Asian American heritage with martial arts, it serves as a bridge of understanding for visitors worldwide.
