On Nov. 19, 2024, the Getty Foundation made a significant commitment to preserving the legacy of Black architects by pledging $1.55 million to the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This funding aims to protect historic modernist buildings designed by Black architects and designers, ensuring that their contributions to architecture are recognized and preserved.
The Conserving Black Modernism initiative
This funding is part of the Conserving Black Modernism initiative, which will support preservation planning, training, and storytelling for eight grantees to be announced in 2025. According to Philanthropy News Digest, the initiative will not only focus on preservation efforts but also foster collaboration among project participants, consultants and preservationists. This collaborative approach encourages peer-to-peer learning and the development of professional networks, which are essential for sustaining the legacy of Black-designed architecture.
Strengthening partnerships for preservation
The initiative aims to strengthen partnerships among the Action Fund, Getty, Black heritage networks, grantees and national stakeholders. These collaborations are vital for preserving Black-designed modern architecture and ensuring that the narratives surrounding these structures are included in the broader story of American heritage.
Addressing historical oversights
Brent Leggs, executive director of the Action Fund and senior vice president of the National Trust, emphasized the historical neglect of African American architects in the modern architecture movement. According to Black Enterprise, he stated, “African American architects and designers have been left out of the modern architecture movement for over a century. Because of this, many pioneers of the Black modernism movement remain unknown, despite the incredible work they have done to fuel innovation, experimentation, and push the limits of how people interact with the built environment.” This funding is a step toward rectifying this oversight and ensuring that the contributions of Black architects are recognized and celebrated.
Impact of the Getty Foundation’s commitment
The Getty Foundation’s allocation to the Conserving Black Modernism initiative is part of a larger effort through the Action Fund’s National Grant Program, which has already invested $27 million in 304 Black historic and cultural sites across the nation. With over $150 million in backing, the Action Fund stands as the largest resource in the U.S. dedicated to preserving African American historic places.
Future opportunities for preservation
Joan Weinstein, Director of the Getty Foundation, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential impact. The ongoing threat to important buildings necessitates continued support and training in communities nationwide, ensuring a robust network of professionals is in place to care for this heritage.
Application process for grantees
The Action Fund will open applications for the next round of funding on Jan. 10, 2025, with grantees expected to be announced in July 2025. This timeline allows for careful consideration of projects that align with the initiative’s goals and values.
The Getty Foundation’s commitment to preserving Black architectural heritage is a crucial step in recognizing and honoring the contributions of Black architects throughout history. By investing in the Conserving Black Modernism initiative, the foundation not only protects these important structures but also ensures that the stories of their creators are included in the narrative of American architecture.
