MoPOP Announces Its Pursuit for National Designation as the National Museum of Pop Culture

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) to introduce the bill in Congress.

SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) is seeking "The National Designation" and the official bill launch will be held on June 24th. The bill is championed by US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) in the House of Representatives. If passed into law, MoPOP would be honored as the National Museum of Pop Culture, holding great importance for our country.

MoPOP, situated in the heart of Seattle, stands as the preeminent institution in the United States dedicated to the curation and exploration of pop culture and its profound impact on society. As a beacon of innovation and creativity, MoPOP has tirelessly championed the universal language of pop culture, uplifting diverse voices, inspiring generations, and challenging societal norms.

Through its preservation efforts, MoPOP transcends conventional museum standards, actively safeguarding pop culture history. From iconic moments to groundbreaking creators, MoPOP celebrates the dynamic force of pop culture and its transformative influence on our collective consciousness.

“We are honored by the possibility of federal recognition given MoPOP’s unwavering dedication to preserving and celebrating popular culture in all its forms,” said Jody Allen, founding director of MoPOP. “This unique opportunity reflects the hard work and passion of our entire team, the national and global impact MoPOP has made since its founding, and our commitment to inspiring current and future generations through the power of creative expression.”

MoPOP's overall attendance in 2023 was an impressive 577,721 visitors from around the world. The museum's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is highlighted by a 179% increase in attendance last year through the Museums for All initiative. This national program encourages families of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly by offering free entry to those with EBT and WIC status, further proving that MoPOP's programming serves as an invaluable educational resource and fosters a deeper understanding of pop culture's global significance.

"We are thrilled to embark on this historic journey towards national designation," said Michele Y. Smith, Chief Executive Officer of MoPOP. "MoPOP's elevation to the status of the National Museum of Pop Culture will further amplify our mission to inspire, educate, and engage audiences worldwide."

The introduction of this legislation represents a pivotal moment in pop culture history, reaffirming MoPOP's enduring legacy as a cultural powerhouse. Once introduced to congress, the bill will go through discussions and potential revisions in congressional committees before it can be passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. If approved by Congress, the final step is for the President to sign the bill into law, officially granting the museum national status.

If passed into law, this designation would signify that MoPOP is recognized by Congress as a national institution that holds great importance for our country.

ABOUT MUSEUM OF POP CULTURE (MoPOP)

MoPOP is a leading-edge nonprofit museum in Seattle, dedicated to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel contemporary pop culture. With a mission to make creative expression a life-changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect our communities, MoPOP reaches multigenerational audiences through our collection, exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships. At MoPOP, artists, audiences, and ideas converge in order to bring understanding, interpretation, and scholarship to the pop culture of our time.