DETROIT, MI - The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (CHWMAAH) received one-million dollars in cash contributions and another one-million in multi-year pledges totaling two- million dollars in monetary gifts from African American business leaders.

The announcement was made during a morning press conference that was held on the grounds of the Museum. In attendance to present the checks were Judge Damon J. Keith, judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and Roderick D. Gillum, chairman of the board of directors for CHWMAAH and vice president of corporate responsibility and diversity for General Motors Corporation.

"We are extremely grateful to the African American business community for their commitment to the Museum," said Christy Coleman, president and CEO of CHWMAAH. "Their contributions and pledges will help finance many current and future projects, including our upcoming core exhibit, And Still We Rise, which will open in November."

"Through these gifts we will continue to help fund programs that will educate and enlighten our community on the issues that face African Americans," said Judge Damon J. Keith. "I am truly proud to be a part of such a wonderful institution."

In addition to receiving these monetary gifts, the Museum has more than doubled its memberships from 5,000 in February to 12,700 at the end of July. Founded in 1965, The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History exists to serve metropolitan Detroit and national communities by providing exceptional exhibitions and programs based on outstanding collections and research that explore the diversity of African American history and culture.

Admission for adults ages 13-61 is $8.00, admission for seniors 62 and older and children ages 3-12 is $5.00. Children under three and members are admitted free. For groups 15 or more admission is $5.00 per person. The Museum is open Tuesday 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday through Saturday; and Sundays 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information contact 313-494-5800 or log on to http://www.maah-detroit.org