Desperate Smithsonian eyes loophole for Latino museum
The Smithsonian Institution is trying to use a loophole to sneak in a building for a yet-to-be-built controversial museum that remains homeless: the National Museum of the American Latino. It is an act of desperation by a museum complex beset with accusations of bias.
TL;DR
- The Smithsonian Institution is considering transferring the Arts and Industries Building (AIB) to the National Museum of the American Latino.
- This transfer would circumvent the need for congressional legislation and debate, as the Smithsonian already owns the AIB.
- The Smithsonian faces accusations of bias and leftist activism, particularly from the Trump administration and some members of Congress.
- The National Museum of the American Latino has been authorized but remains homeless and has been criticized for potentially promoting radical activism.
- Retrofitting the AIB is estimated to cost nearly $1 billion, with an additional $50 million annually for operation.