1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The Smithsonian's decision to remove artifacts and exhibits related to Black history and resistance is deeply concerning. These objects represent important chapters in our nation's story and serve as powerful reminders of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans. Dismantling displays like the Woolworth's lunch counter undermines efforts to accurately portray America's past and risks erasing the identities and experiences of Black communities. Additionally, returning loaned civil rights artifacts removes precious historical context. Museums should strive to educate visitors comprehensively, not obscure truth. I urge you to reconsider this alarming purge and reinstate the removed materials to preserve an unvarnished account of our shared heritage for all Americans to learn from and appreciate.