Houston City Council Member Edward Pollard will present historic funding to the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) on Thursday, February 5, marking the first time a public official has allocated direct funding to the museum.

The check presentation will take place during Black History Month and is being held in partnership with the Houston Public Library. City leaders say the initiative reflects a broader effort to expand access to cultural, educational, and artistic resources across Houston communities.

Pollard, who represents District J, has recently supported similar cultural initiatives, including funding for ALMAAHH, Advocates of a Latino Museum of Cultural and Visual Arts & Archive Complex in Houston and Harris County. The investments point to an ongoing focus on strengthening Houston’s cultural infrastructure through public-private collaboration.

During the event, representatives from HMAAC are expected to provide updates on current exhibitions and announce a new initiative that uses Oculus virtual reality technology to deliver immersive art and cultural experiences in public libraries, schools, the Harris County Women’s Empowerment Center, and other community spaces. Through the partnership with the Houston Public Library, the program is designed to broaden access to museum-quality content beyond traditional venues.

The presentation is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Houston Museum of African American Culture, located at 4807 Caroline Street in Houston’s Museum District.

City officials say the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to increase educational opportunity and technological access while ensuring that Houston’s cultural institutions remain accessible to residents across neighborhoods and income levels, particularly during Black History Month.