Keep These Cultural Gems Alive : Help needed for Science and Industry and Afro-American museums

California’s horrendous budget shortfall threatens to close two hugely valuable institutions: the California Museum of Science and Industry and the California Afro-American Museum, both in Exposition Park. Shouldn’t something be done?

These cultural oases annually provide windows on other worlds for more than 2 million visitors, largely children. The youngsters peer and are sometimes invited to touch during these exposures to science, technology and art.

Gov. Pete Wilson and the Assembly recognize the value of these educational institutions. However, a Senate sub-committee rejected the $6.2-million state appropriation dedicated primarily to the larger and older museum, Science and Industry, which has 200,000 square feet. The 44,000-square-foot Afro-Am had been scheduled to receive $1.2 million.

To keep the museums open, the full Senate must vote its approval of the funds by June 15. A full reprieve is certainly in order, but of course if a compromise is needed--such as scaled-back hours of operation--that would be better than nothing.

Both museums have raised funds to offset earlier budget cuts and support special exhibits. This time the plea is even more urgent. The museums deserve the support of corporations, philanthropies and individuals.

Admission is free, to allow all children access. A few visitors donate a dollar, but now is the time for visitors to give 10s, 20s, 50s and 100s.

To give to the California Museum of Science and Industry, mail your contribution to 700 State Drive, Los Angeles, Calif. 90037. The address for the California Afro-American Museum is 600 State Drive, Los Angeles, Calif. 90037.

The California Museum of Science and Industry exposes children and adults to technology and all manner of science at a time when public libraries have been forced to reduced their hours. The California Afro-American Museum bridges a cultural gap in a city that is often multicultural only in its tensions. These museums fill a huge void in Los Angeles. Let’s keep them alive.