Smithsonian races to finalise site for national Latino museum
The board of regents will discuss opening the institution inside the historic Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall—a move that could circumvent congressional approval, and president Trump
The Smithsonian Institution's board of regents is set to meet later this month to discuss the potential location of the National Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall in Washington, DC. According to Robin Pogrebin of The New York Times, using an existing building would save the need for congressional approval and avoid a political dispute with President Donald Trump's administration.
The Arts and Industries Building, a 19th-century landmark, was originally intended to become the US's first national museum, but has fallen into disrepair and currently only hosts special exhibitions. The museum's future has faced political opposition, most recently in May 2023 when the Smithsonian's director was confronted by Republicans over its perceived bias.
House Republicans have also voiced their disapproval of the project, calling it a "loophole" to sneak in a controversial museum. However, with several critical deadlines approaching, the Smithsonian's leadership may be pursuing a congressional carveout to ensure the museum's construction, despite criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.
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