London’s Vagina Museum saved after raising £60,000 in a day
Public support secures the museum’s future—for now—but long-term stability remains uncertain
Just a day after announcing it was on the brink of closure, London’s Vagina Museum has been saved by a wave of public support. The museum launched a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe, seeking £60,000 to cover an upcoming rent payment that would have forced it to shut down. In just 24 hours, the goal was met, ensuring the museum can remain open for the foreseeable future. However, the need for support is still urgent, as the museum’s long-term financial stability remains uncertain.
The Vagina Museum, which first opened as a pop-up in 2017 before securing a permanent space, has faced financial instability throughout its history. Despite its success as an educational and cultural institution, it has struggled to maintain long-term security. Its current location in Bethnal Green, where it relocated in late 2023, presented a new challenge when landlords required rent to be paid quarterly rather than monthly, pushing the museum into financial distress.
Announcing the emergency fundraising effort, the museum framed its potential closure as a reflection of wider crises: “Reproductive rights are in crisis. Women’s rights are in crisis. LGBT+ rights are in crisis. Arts and culture are in crisis. This has had a serious impact on our short- and long-term sustainability.” The urgency of the situation struck a chord, drawing attention from news outlets, social media, and supporters worldwide.
The response was immediate and overwhelming. Thousands rallied to keep the museum alive, donating and sharing the campaign. In a post on Bluesky, the museum declared victory:
While this victory ensures the museum’s survival for now, questions remain about its long-term financial stability. The museum has indicated that any funds raised beyond the initial target could help sustain operations or even fund growth. However, without structural funding solutions, the institution may find itself in a similar crisis again. In a follow-up post on Bluesky, the museum said:
“Your donations still matter, now more than ever. The real work starts now. Become a part of this historic moment, and donate to defy patriarchy, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny and attacks on our precious cultural spaces.”
For now, the Vagina Museum continues, thanks to the power of community action. Those who wish to continue supporting it can visit, donate, or engage with its educational programs, helping to secure its place for years to come. 🪐
saved for now
I Hope The London Vagina Museum Can Be Saved On A Permanent Basis.