For almost two years, the Smithsonian Institution—especially its history museums—has faced steady attacks from those who would seek to strip the Smithsonian’s independence and integrity. These efforts attempt to subvert best practices, scholarship, and ultimately the Smithsonian’s mission to increase and diffuse knowledge.
Against this backdrop, and in the wake of Secretary of the Smithsonian Lonnie G. Bunch III’s resignation this month, we ask you to contact your elected officials to encourage the ongoing independence of the Smithsonian and its governing body, the Board of Regents. At this vulnerable moment, helping to ensure that a majority of Board members remain committed to the Smithsonian’s autonomy and funding is of paramount importance, especially as the Board will select the next Secretary.
Citizen Historians for the Smithsonian, a volunteer group, is asking practitioners to send letters by November 30 to their members of Congress, particularly if they live in districts represented by members of Congress with oversight of the Smithsonian’s Board (see this list for reference). A personalized letter will stand out among the thousands of inquiries elected representatives regularly receive and make clear just how important it is to protect the Smithsonian.
The letters should be brief and speak concretely about why protecting the Smithsonian matters to you. The group also asks that you send a copy of your letter to [email protected].
While writing a personalized letter will have the greatest impact, you could also write a personalized email or fill out this American Alliance of Museums form to reach your representative.
In addition to writing letters, consider meeting in-person with your elected representative, whether at their district office, a community event, fundraiser, or town hall. And there are other ways to help: spread the word about this effort to your networks and others who care deeply about the future of the Smithsonian, such as nearby history departments and community organizations.
If you’re interested in learning more about AASLH’s efforts to help defend and strengthen the history field, please visit aaslh.org/advocacy.
