Tag

Smithsonian

All articles tagged with #smithsonian

politics10 days ago

House blocks Smithsonian women’s history museum bill over content control and relocation powers

The House voted 216-204 to reject legislation advancing construction of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum after a partisan clash over amended language—limiting the museum to “biological women,” requiring diverse viewpoints, and granting the president unilateral power to relocate the site—drawing Democratic objections that the changes give excessive control to one person and politicize the project.

Smithsonian Castle Reopens on the National Mall With Artifacts and a Lobster Rolls Café
culture17 days ago

Smithsonian Castle Reopens on the National Mall With Artifacts and a Lobster Rolls Café

Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall reopens May 22–Sept 7 after years of renovation, housing the new 'American Aspirations' exhibit with artifacts like Thomas Jefferson's writing desk and Amelia Earhart's flight suit. A new Summer Shack café serves New England fare, including lobster rolls, with indoor seating and grab‑and‑go options. The broader reopening includes the Arts and Industries Building (reopening June 16) for public programming through Sept 7 as part of the Smithsonian’s push for the 250th anniversary.

Smithsonian Unveils Rare, Nearly Complete Dinosaur Skull
science5 months ago

Smithsonian Unveils Rare, Nearly Complete Dinosaur Skull

A rare near-complete skull of a Pachycephalosaurus, a dome-headed herbivore from the Cretaceous Period, was found in South Dakota and will be displayed at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History for a limited time. The fossil is significant due to its rarity and the insights it provides into dinosaurs living just before their extinction, and it was donated by philanthropists Eric and Wendy Schmidt.

Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Shut Down Amid Government Funding Crisis
world7 months ago

Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Shut Down Amid Government Funding Crisis

Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., have closed due to the ongoing government shutdown, which has entered its third week, affecting federal funding and operations, though animal care continues. The shutdown has led to significant financial and visitor losses, with political disagreements delaying a funding resolution.

Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Close Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown
world7 months ago

Smithsonian Museums and National Zoo Close Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

The Smithsonian museums and National Zoo in Washington, D.C., are closing due to the ongoing government shutdown, affecting all 21 museums and research centers, though animal care will continue. The shutdown has also led to closures of some national parks and layoffs of federal employees, highlighting the broader impact of the funding dispute.

Smithsonian Defies White House and Trump Over Exhibit and Programming Control
politics8 months ago

Smithsonian Defies White House and Trump Over Exhibit and Programming Control

Four Democratic senators have urged the Smithsonian to resist White House efforts to influence its content and maintain its independence, amid recent criticisms and proposed audits by the Trump administration. They emphasize that the Smithsonian is a federally funded, independent trust managed by Congress, not the executive branch, and should be protected from political interference.

Controversy and Censorship Surround Smithsonian Museum Policies
culture9 months ago

Controversy and Censorship Surround Smithsonian Museum Policies

The article examines President Trump's criticism of the Smithsonian museums, claiming they are too 'woke' and focus excessively on negative aspects of American history, particularly slavery and race. It details a White House review of the museums' exhibits, the potential implications, and public reactions, emphasizing that most visitors see the museums as balanced and truthful in their portrayal of history.

Trump's Influence Sparks Debate Over Smithsonian's Future
culture9 months ago

Trump's Influence Sparks Debate Over Smithsonian's Future

A visit to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History reveals the complex duality of American identity, showcasing both achievements and darker chapters like slavery and colonialism. President Trump criticizes the museum for emphasizing negative aspects of American history and seeks a narrative focused on pride and success. The museum, however, presents a nuanced view, exploring America's triumphs alongside its sins, prompting reflection on patriotism, diversity, and the nation's future.

Debate Over Smithsonian and Racial Issues Intensifies Amid Political Criticism
politics9 months ago

Debate Over Smithsonian and Racial Issues Intensifies Amid Political Criticism

A top Democrat, Hakeem Jeffries, criticized Donald Trump for his comments about the Smithsonian Institution, calling him a 'racial arsonist' for his remarks on how American history, including slavery, is portrayed. Jeffries emphasized the importance of the Smithsonian's role in accurately representing painful parts of history, while Trump suggested reviewing museum collections, leading to controversy over the depiction of race and history in American museums.