Museums Face Growing Threats of Censorship in the US

Strategic Insights -

Museums are crucial institutions in American society, with over 22,000 museums serving communities both rural and urban, contributing billions to the US economy each year, and protecting the shared heritage of the nation. However, in recent months, these institutions have faced increasing external pressures to modify, remove, or limit exhibitions and programs, risking a chilling effect across the entire museum sector. The American Alliance of Museums stands in support of the hundreds of thousands of museum professionals in the US who protect the nation's heritage, conserve species, create unforgettable experiences, and serve their communities with integrity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Museums in the US face growing threats of censorship, with over 22,000 institutions facing pressure to modify or remove exhibitions and programs.
  • The American Alliance of Museums stands in support of museum professionals, who educate, connect, and inspire communities across the nation.
  • Museums contribute billions to the US economy each year and serve communities both rural and urban, making them cornerstones of American life.
  • Freedom of thought and expression are foundational American values, and museums uphold them by creating spaces where people can engage with history, science, art, and culture in honest, fact-based, and thought-provoking ways.
  • The AAM is the only organization representing the entire museum field, with over 100 years of experience advocating for museums and providing resources to museum professionals.
  • The museum sector has witnessed a chilling effect due to external pressures, which can have far-reaching consequences for the nation's heritage and the public's window into evidence, ideas, and perspectives.

Statistics:

  • Over 22,000 museums exist in the US, serving communities across the nation (Source: American Alliance of Museums).
  • Museums contribute billions to the US economy each year (Source: American Alliance of Museums).
  • Hundreds of thousands of museum professionals ensure the preservation of the nation's heritage, conservation of species, and engagement of communities (Source: American Alliance of Museums).

Sources:

  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM) - "About Us" (n.d.)
  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM) - "Statement on Censorship" (n.d.)