The African American Cultural Center (AACC), formerly known as the August Wilson Center, is a newly created 501(c)(3) organization whose sole mission is to own, operate, and preserve the building in which it is housed as a vibrant community asset. The AACC produces and presents African-American arts and cultural programming, including visual art exhibits, theatrical, musical, and dance performances, classes, lectures, hands-on learning, and community events. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is under agreement to “operate the Center as a first-class multi-venue, multi-use public entertainment and performance and visual arts facility with a primary focus on the art, culture, and history of African Americans.”


Photo: James Steinkamp

Nearly 250 activities were held at the AACC in 2016, with more than 70 representing African-American cultural interests. Many of the scheduled activities were space rentals, generating income for the facility. A $600,000 Foundation grant in 2016 is supporting the AACC’s building operations.