The Smithsonian Is Not a ‘Distorter.’ It’s a Mirror.
The institution forces America to look at its full history. We’re supposed to learn from what we see — not pretend it doesn’t exist.
Looking and learning.
Photographer: Pete Kiehart/Bloomberg
For 178 years, the Smithsonian Institution and its 21 museums, 21 libraries, 14 education and resource centers, National Zoo, and other affiliates have been responsible for chronicling and displaying our nation’s existence to enlighten past, present and future generations.
The federally and privately funded organization has a responsibility to detail our country’s journey, from its beauty and majesty to its ugliness and struggles. But just as important as it is to show and tell the nation’s history, the Smithsonian’s displays have the power to unite, challenge, inspire, educate and evoke empathy.