Save These Two Local Treasures : Afro-American Museum and Museum of Science and Industry are in difficulty

The state’s unprecedented budget deficit threatens beauty. Brutal but unavoidable budget cuts also threaten science and industry--and two cultural oases in Los Angeles.

The $1.1-million budget of the California Afro-American Museum is on the table with all other state services. The revenue picture for its older and much larger neighbor, the California Museum of Science and Industry, also looks bleak. The hits could range from 15% to 50%. Significant cuts would decimate staff, hours and programs in the museums, both in Exposition Park.

The two museums enrich Los Angeles. At 44,000 square feet, the Afro-Am is the largest institution of its kind in the nation. Through its collection of artworks and photographic and historical exhibits, this museum fills in significant gaps in art and multicultural education. At 200,000 square feet, the Museum of Science and Industry provides the kinds of science education that children can ill afford to lose. The value of the two museums is immeasurable.

Art patrons and good corporate citizens should help make up the deficits, and then some, through donations. Private support is common in the arts arena. Time Warner Inc., the media conglomerate, used its clout to publicize the current “Songs of My People” exhibit at the Afro-Am. The collection of 150 photos captures the romance, the work ethic, the everyday life of black America. Attendance doubled during the first three weeks, when more than 40,000 people viewed the exhibit.

Annual attendance tops 2 million at the Museum of Science and Industry. Most visitors are families that take advantage of the free admission and weekend hours. Both museums bridge chasms in cultural and technical knowledge in Los Angeles. They deserve sustained support.