The Performing Arts Center was officially opened in 2007 due to the hard work and countless hours of many state officials and community members.
Construction of the center was made possible through legislative funding secured by Representative Sheryl Williams Stapleton and Governor Bill Richardson. After opening, Governor Richardson declared June 9, African American Performing Arts Center Day across New Mexico.
The mission of the African American Performing Arts Center and Exhibit Hall is to preserve, nurture and support the intellectual and cultural history of African Americans in New Mexico and the Southwest.