A Letter to AAAM Members and Supports from the President & CEO Dr. Vedet Coleman-Robinson
Why Federal Support for Museums Matters
Museums are more than just buildings; they are hubs of education, cultural preservation, and community engagement. They provide jobs, support local economies, and offer critical learning experiences for all ages. However, executive orders that threaten federal funding for museums—such as the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)—put these essential institutions and their programs at risk. African American-focused museums, libraries, and cultural institutions in particular have received over $40 million for almost up to 30 years to preserve, protect, and interpret African American history and culture.
The Threat to Museums & Cultural Institutions
Recent executive actions have raised concerns about the future of museum funding and resources. These orders can:
✅ Reduce critical funding for museum programs that support education, conservation, and community outreach.
✅ Limit access to grants that help small and local museums stay operational.
✅ Jeopardize jobs in museum and cultural sectors, impacting educators, researchers, and preservationists.
✅ Hinder preservation efforts that safeguard our nation’s diverse history and cultural heritage.
What’s at Stake?
🔹 Education & Public Programs – Museums provide hands-on learning opportunities, school partnerships, and programs that inspire future generations.
🔹 Local & National Economic Impact – Museums contribute billions to the economy and support thousands of jobs.
🔹 Historical & Cultural Preservation – Funding cuts put at risk the ability to preserve and showcase stories of our collective past.
Take Action: Protect Museum Funding
Your voice matters! Here’s how you can help:
Contact Your Representatives – Urge them to support continued federal funding for museums and oppose harmful executive actions. PLEASE NOTE: Congress will soon be in recess; we implore you to engage directly with legislators and their district offices.
Send Members of Congress a Letter– Click the link button below to download the template. Copy the template, revise with your information, and send from your preferred email.
Spread the Word – Share this page with your network and raise awareness on social media using #SaveOurMuseums #SupportIMLS.
Donate – Support advocacy efforts that fight for the sustainability of our cultural institutions.
Resources & Additional Information
- The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is hosting three webinars in March to help the field process the challenges caused by recent Executive Orders.
- Guidance on the legality of DEI in the workplace.
- Harvard Business Review article on shifting language around DEI.
- FAQ from Venable on the federal funding freeze.
- National Council of Nonprofits – List of Executive Orders Affecting Charitable Nonprofits