Advocacy Alert – July 20, 2026

AAM statement on the independence of the Smithsonian Institution and America’s museums

Today, the American Alliance of Museums issued a statement in response to the Administration’s continued attacks on the Smithsonian Institution and the broader implications these actions have for museums across the country. As our nation’s flagship museum system and an AAM-accredited institution, the Smithsonian represents the highest standards of scholarship, stewardship, and public service. If our nation’s leading museum system can become subject to political influence, no museum is beyond reach. The precedent would jeopardize the independence of 22,000 museums of every size and discipline across the country.

Write To Congress – Multiple Smithsonian Hearings This Week!

There are multiple Congressional hearings scheduled this week on the Smithsonian Institution. Use our template to write to Congress today and ask them to oppose efforts to attack the Smithsonian and the broader museum field.

Your steadfast advocacy efforts make a big difference in building needed support for museums and museum professionals.

Looking for more advocacy tools and resources? Visit the Advocacy section of the AAM Resource Library today!