I read that the president wants a total review of the Smithsonian Institute, with a focus on how decisions are made as to what is shown in its exhibits. According to several reports, the president has instructed attorneys to examine the museums that make up the institute, using the same process they used in examining colleges and universities. I for one hope that the Smithsonian Institute and any other museums that are investigated take this opportunity to instruct us all on what they do. But to be honest, I fear that they already are off to a bad start in their own defense.
In response I’ve heard a lot of talk about the need to remember our history along with the need to tell the whole story, both of which are true. I’ve also heard a lot about the need for museums to remain independent, a point on which I also agree. What I have not heard is talk about anything positive that our museums say about our country. Now, I admit that I have never been to any of the Smithsonian Museums and that I know little about what they have in their exhibits, but I just can’t believe that it is all negative. If in fact the presentation of our history is fair and balanced, then now is the time to state their case.
When they were examined by the administration, our colleges and universities did a terrible job at responding, providing soundbites that gave the impression that they were out of touch and perhaps even antisemitic. The Smithsonian Institute, along with the rest of our nation’s museums, should be able to avoid this kind of response. If, as they claim to do, our museums tell a fair and balanced story, they should endeavor to do so even under an examination that is pushing an agenda. Hopefully, they will take this opportunity to teach the administration, and the rest of our nation, the importance of knowing our history: both the good and the bad. This is a great PR opportunity, but I am afraid that, like a certain political party that shall go unnamed, our most treasured museum system is on the verge of blowing it.
