Chicago’s Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III has an Idea to Save ‘The Blacksonian’

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), affectionately known as “The Blacksonian,” is a major cultural institution drawing around 3 million visitors annually to Washington, D.C. However, its future has recently come under threat following an executive order from President Donald Trump titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” The order claims that the museum, along with others, promotes division and casts American history in a negative light. It calls for a purge of liberal ideology and assigns Vice President JD Vance the task of overseeing these changes—despite his limited authority as only one of 17 board members.

The controversy deepened when NMAAHC’s director, Kevin Young, took indefinite personal leave just days before the order. This created widespread concern among historians and the Black community that the museum could be seriously impacted—or even dismantled—under the current administration.

In response, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III of Chicago’s Trinity United Church of Christ took decisive action. During a Sunday service, Moss declared that Trinity would include financial support for NMAAHC in its annual budget and called on congregants to contribute $25 each—the cost of a basic membership. This collective act of support from a prominent Black church not only offers vital financial aid but also stands as a powerful show of solidarity for preserving Black history and culture.

Rev. Moss emphasized that such support is crucial because the museum primarily relies on donations rather than federal funding. While the exact amount raised remains unknown, the congregation’s approval to financially back the museum marked a symbolic and impactful stand against efforts to undermine it.

Moss concluded by reinforcing Trinity’s identity, urging members to share their commitment proudly: “I go to a church that is unashamedly Black and unapologetically Christian.” Read more here