Preserve museums' role uplifting underrepresented voices and histories

The coordinated attack on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at museums across the country is deeply concerning. Attempting to erase these important principles from cultural institutions does not change the reality of America's diverse histories and the need to accurately represent all communities. Museums play a vital role in preserving stories that have too often been marginalized or forgotten. Removing frameworks meant to uplift underrepresented voices and perspectives would be a disservice to the public and deprive us all of a fuller understanding of our nation's past and present. I urge you to not only maintain but strengthen support for DEI initiatives that allow museums to engage with communities in a meaningful way and foster an appreciation for our vibrant pluralistic society. Promoting inclusion and equity should be a source of pride, not something to be suppressed or underfunded. Cultural literacy depends on preserving the historical record in its full richness.