America's Black Holocaust Museum in Milwaukee will reopen in 2022

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A Milwaukee Bronzeville staple is finally reopening, and hoping to reunite the community through its powerful historical message.

America's Black Holocaust Museum (ABHM) will welcome back guests on Feb. 25, 2022.

It will the very first time since this facility, at Vel R. Phillips and North Avenue, was built that the public will be able to go inside.

"Reopening is great. I'm sure it'll be a great party. But it is the maintenance and the sustaining and the growing that we also must invest in," said Ald. Milele Coggs.

The original museum was just a few feet to the south of the new building and was founded in 1988 by Dr. James Cameron.

It's been closed since 2008 due to the recession and Cameron's death.

ABHM's President and CEO Dr. Robert 'Bert' Davis said days like this don't happen.

He explained that re-openings of museums -- especially Black museums -- are rare.

"The re-emergence of the museum in Bronzeville, and serving as a cornerstone for the re-emergence, is also a privilege," said Davis.

The reopening happened with the support of Dr. Cameron's family and various community partnerships -- including the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

"The community needs ABHM today more than ever because a thriving Milwaukee requires that we acknowledge the truth, that we learn from history," said Kristen Mekemson, vice president of development and philanthropic services.

America's Black Holocaust Museum is in Bronzeville, but Dr. Davis said it's a place of learning for everyone.

"One of the hardest things to get to is the truth because once you learn the truth you're empowered beyond your wildest dreams. And so this museum is important because we will, as best we can, more accurately share the truth of America," said Davis.

Once the Museum opens Davis said they'll continue partnering with the community.

ABHM is reopening on founder, Dr. Cameron's birthday.