The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is a non-profit organization that represents the interests of museums and museum professionals in the United States. With a history dating back to 1906, the AAM has played a crucial role in advocating for the museum community and promoting the value of museums in society.
The AAM serves as a national voice for museums, advocating for policies and funding that support the growth and sustainability of museums across the country. It works closely with government agencies, policymakers, and other organizations to ensure that museums are recognized as essential educational and cultural institutions. Through its advocacy efforts, the AAM aims to increase public understanding and support for museums, as well as to influence legislation and regulations that impact the museum field.
In addition to advocacy, the AAM provides a wide range of resources and services to its members. It offers professional development opportunities, including conferences, workshops, and webinars, to help museum professionals enhance their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the field. The AAM also provides access to research and publications, such as the Museum magazine and the Center for the Future of Museums' reports, which offer insights and analysis on various topics relevant to museums.
One of the key initiatives of the AAM is accreditation. The AAM Accreditation Program is a rigorous process that evaluates a museum's operations and ensures that it meets professional standards of excellence. Accreditation is seen as a mark of distinction and credibility for museums, demonstrating their commitment to high standards of governance, collections stewardship, education, and public service. The AAM also offers various resources and support to help museums in their journey towards accreditation.
The AAM is committed to promoting diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion in the museum field. It recognizes the importance of museums reflecting the diverse communities they serve and works towards creating a more inclusive and equitable museum sector. The AAM provides resources, training, and guidance to help museums address issues of diversity and inclusion, and it actively advocates for policies and practices that promote equity and accessibility in museums.
Another significant aspect of the AAM's work is its focus on ethics and professional standards. The AAM has developed a Code of Ethics for Museums, which provides guidelines for ethical behavior and professional conduct in the museum field. It also offers resources and support to help museums navigate ethical challenges and make informed decisions.
Overall, the American Alliance of Museums plays a vital role in supporting and advancing the museum community in the United States. Through its advocacy, resources, and services, the AAM helps museums thrive and fulfill their mission of educating, inspiring, and engaging the public. As museums continue to evolve and face new challenges, the AAM remains a trusted partner and advocate, working towards a vibrant and sustainable future for museums in America.
