The International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, South Carolina is set to furlough all of its staff due to "financial pressure".
From July through 31 December, the museum's employees will be furloughed for a total of 20 days, staggered over the months, the Guardian reports.
The furlough will affect all staff at the International African American Museum, including its leadership. The museum will remain fully operational and open throughout.
The International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, South Carolina is set to furlough all of its staff
In a statement, the museum said: "We are navigating a shift in the political and funding environment that has made financial operations uniquely more challenging for our institution.
"This action is being taken to reduce expenses and avoid layoffs while we refocus on sustainable revenue growth and fundraising efforts."
It added: "We know this affects our employees and their families in real ways. Keeping this team together and supporting them through difficult times is why we chose this path rather than deeper cuts."
The International African American Museum opened in summer 2023 after more than 20 years of planning.
Furlough to affect all staff
Located at the site of Gadsden’s Wharf, a former slave trading port, it includes nine galleries, a world-class genealogy and ancestry resource centre, and a memorial garden.
Designed by architect Henry Cobb, the 150,000-square-foot institution explores the history, culture and impact of the African American journey across the world.
"Thank you for waiting several centuries for this moment to honor the untold story of the African American people," Tonya Matthews, the museum’s president and CEO, said at the opening.
Images courtesy of the International African American Museum
