WASHINGTON - The Committee on House Administration recently held a full committee hearing titled, "Looking Ahead Series: Oversight of the Smithsonian Institution." This marked the first wide-ranging oversight hearing of the Smithsonian in three years. The hearing provided a platform for members of Congress to address their concerns and gather insights from Secretary of the Smithsonian, Lonnie G. Bunch III.
One of the key takeaways from the hearing was the importance of the Smithsonian rejecting foreign influence. Chairman Bryan Steil raised concerns about the National Zoo's loan agreement with China for giant pandas. He questioned Secretary Bunch about any compromises made to accommodate China or any other foreign government. Secretary Bunch made it clear that the Smithsonian has never changed or compromised any public content to appease foreign governments, stating, "Definitely not."
Another crucial point discussed during the hearing was the need for the Smithsonian to remain nonpartisan. Representative Greg Murphy expressed his concerns about certain assumptions made in a document about white culture that was associated with the Smithsonian. Secretary Bunch acknowledged the flaws in the document and promptly took it down. He emphasized the importance of the Smithsonian helping the country address issues of race while ensuring that inappropriate content is not promoted, stating, "That document is not the kind of document that should be at the Smithsonian."
The involvement of the Smithsonian in events that may be seen as indoctrination was also a topic of discussion. Representative Stephanie Bice questioned Secretary Bunch about the number of drag shows hosted by the Smithsonian, particularly those targeted at children. Secretary Bunch expressed surprise and stated that exposing children to drag shows is not appropriate, promising to investigate the matter further.
In addition to the verbal exchanges during the hearing, several artifacts were showcased by the Smithsonian. Secretary Bunch shared these artifacts with the members and the audience, including a Wisconsin Cheesehead hat from 1990. Other significant artifacts included a set of 'jailed for freedom' jewelry, Mary Lincoln's mourning watch, WWI trench art, and a 'Steel Pot' M1 U.S. Army Helmet with the 65th Infantry 'Borinqueneers' insignia.
The hearing shed light on the Smithsonian's commitment to maintaining its integrity and independence, rejecting foreign influence, and remaining nonpartisan. Secretary Bunch addressed concerns raised by members of Congress and assured them of the Smithsonian's dedication to its mission of public engagement and education.
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