The Contemporary Jewish Museum Announces Temporary Closure to Ensure Long-Term Viability

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 (San Francisco, CA) — Today, The Contemporary Jewish Museum (The CJM) announced it was taking significant steps to ensure its financial stability and to allow time to develop a sustainable operating model for the future. These steps include a temporary reduction in its public operations, including the closure of its galleries on December 15, 2024 for a period of at least one year, along with a phased reduction of its staff over the next several months. The CJM’s Board of Trustees emphasized that its actions do not represent a permanent closure of the institution, but are timely actions necessary to ensure The Museum’s future.

The CJM has been weathering a challenging financial landscape, compounded by attendance and general support that have not fully recovered since the pandemic. During the planned closure, The Museum will thoroughly evaluate its financial framework and engage in intense planning and organizational assessment, with the clear goal of emerging as a more resilient organization.

“The CJM plays a unique role in San Francisco, and we must scale back to allow ourselves the time and resources needed for re-imagining and rebuilding” said Kerry King, Executive Director. “It is far better for us to take necessary steps towards restructuring now, rather than waiting until we no longer have options. This decision does not come without significant pain because it will affect our team of extraordinary and deeply dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to fulfill The Museum's mission."

Given the increase in antisemitism over recent years, The CJM’s mission to educate, promote understanding, and celebrate Jewish culture is more critical than ever. This temporary pause will enable the organization to strengthen its foundation, ensuring it can continue this work well into the future.

“More than fifteen years ago, a dedicated group brought The CJM from a small gallery space to the iconic institution it is today,” said Tom Kasten, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “The Museum’s mandate is as vital now as ever, and our current goal is to design a sustainable model that not only preserves but amplifies its impact. I’m confident that in years to come, this will be seen as a pivotal chapter in The Museum’s journey.”

Since its founding, The CJM has presented numerous exhibitions centered on Jewish art and values, engaged with thousands of students in exploring Jewish culture, and offered a wealth of programs showcasing diverse expressions of Jewish identity. It has played a crucial role in educating audiences of all communities about Jewish life and offered a critical platform for uplifting the voices of Jewish artists. The organization remains committed to continuing this important work.

In recognition of this chapter, The CJM invites visitors to experience its current exhibitions free of charge through December 15, 2024. Highlights include the California Jewish Open, Leah Rosenberg: When One Sees a Rainbow, Looted, and Nicki Green: Firmament. After this date, The CJM will continue to offer rental opportunities for its space in downtown San Francisco. For more information, please visit www.thecjm.org.