1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am deeply concerned about recent threats to our democratic institutions, particularly the Smithsonian and our voting rights. President Trump's statement criticizing the Smithsonian for its portrayal of slavery is not just an isolated incident, but part of a broader pattern that threatens the foundations of our democracy. The Smithsonian plays a crucial role in preserving and presenting our nation's history accurately. Attempts to downplay the horrors of slavery are not only historically inaccurate but also disrespect the experiences of millions of Americans. We must protect the integrity of our cultural institutions from political interference that seeks to rewrite history for ideological gains. This attack on historical truth is closely linked to ongoing efforts to undermine our voting rights. The current push to restrict voting access and gerrymander districts is reminiscent of post-Civil War tactics used to disenfranchise Black voters. These modern voter suppression efforts, often disguised as measures against "voter fraud," are a direct threat to the democratic process that our nation was built upon. The "Stop the Steal" campaign and subsequent attempts to overturn legitimate election results represent a dangerous escalation. These actions, rooted in baseless claims of election fraud, have already led to violence and continue to erode public trust in our electoral system. I urge you to take immediate action to protect our democracy. We need legislation that safeguards voting rights, ensures fair redistricting, and protects the independence of institutions like the Smithsonian. Additionally, I ask that you publicly denounce any attempts to distort history or undermine the legitimacy of our elections. The stakes could not be higher. Our democracy is facing a critical test, and your leadership is crucial in this moment. Please stand firm in defense of truth, fairness, and the democratic principles that have guided our nation for generations. The future of our republic depends on the actions we take today to protect it from those who would seek to undermine its very foundations.